3. The Power to Tolerate The tree is an iconic representation of the power to tolerate. So how is the tree tolerant? The tree is often exploited for its fruits yet humbly gives them up. Like a tree, we can develop the strength to respond with humility and generosity to both outward or inward challenges. The Power of Tolerance is the ability to be undisturbed within, by people, situations and circumstances going on around us and within us. Its an ability that comes with ease when we are involved yet maintain a loose attachment at the same time to whatever is going on. People around us may say and do things which trigger buried painful memories and emotions. When this occurs, we can tolerate our own inner reactions and that is only possible when we consciously disengaged or have a dispassionate view towards the thoughts and feelings which seek to provoke our reaction. As an observer, we can imagine we are watching the greatest movie in history where nothing in the script can disturb us. Part of our role in tolerating others is to allow their energy to pass through us whilst we choose to resonate at the highest and purest energies of silence, stillness, love, wisdom, etc. This way we return blessings in the face of insult, demonstrate acceptance in the face of rejection and maintain an attitude of love in the face of hatred. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Prepare yourself for the world, as the athletes used to do for their exercise; oil your mind and your manners, to give them the necessary suppleness and flexibility; strength alone will not do. - Lord Chesterfield It is not enough for a man to know how to ride, he must also know how to fall. - Native American Proverb
Posted on: Wed, 01 Oct 2014 09:02:34 +0000