Something has been on my mind ever since I subbed a yoga class last week here in NYC. I delivered what I thought was a pretty strong class. I am big on technique and proper alignment and to me, sometimes that is a greater challenge than jamming through a sequence of twists, turns and balances. It was the second time I had filled in for this particular instructor so I saw many of the same people in class I saw a few days prior. Many of the students enjoyed my class and let me know. It was very gratifying, as it had been a while since I had taught a yoga class. One of the 'regulars' kind of hung around after until everyone else had left the studio. He said thanks for class, followed by a "I just want to let you know that this class is used to a more challenging workout. They are really advanced." I nodded and thanked him for the feedback and input. I wish I could say that I didn't dismiss his comment or consider it trivial. But I did. Especially given the fact that many of the students, him included, were not as advanced as I think they believed themselves to be.
And then I realized that I was being somewhat hypocritical and how often I want, and often expect, things to be difficult. This has been a particular challenge of mine. To overcome this idea that nothing comes easy. That anything worth doing must be a struggle of some sort. As if the harder I work, the bigger the reward. So I work and work and work. And wait for that big reward. And rewards do come, but often they are not directly correlated to the amount of effort I put in. And most often, the biggest rewards can not be measured.
The worse part is that when something is going right and it's 'easy' so to speak, I question it. Why? Yes, life definitely presents us with challenges. There is no denying that. But to question the greatest gifts in life? That's just crazy. And I do it.
So, if you often find yourself thinking the same thing I present a challenge (!) to myself and to you: Work when you must, rise to the occasions that call you to action. However, know that often, it is more about the intention and mindfulness we direct toward any desire, task, or job that will truly dictate the outcome. For whatever you want, whatever you desire, whatever you intend, the Universe will grant to you if you are open to it. No struggle required.
Posted on
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
by Jennifer Galardi
filed under