The snake slithers through the grass.  He is looking for some food.  Meanwhile, a small mouse is enjoying the sunshine, while looking for some food of his own.  It is pretty evident that the two animals cannot live together, given the snake is a predator of the mouse.  However, the mouse understands that the snake is trying to feed himself, just as he is attempting to do.

The mouse continues about his business, gathering grains that are scattered beneath the grasses on the floor of the Earth.  The snake continues looking for some food as well, as it slithers along beneath the grasses.  The mouse looks up to see the sharp fangs about to bear down on him.   He knows there is no time, and willing gives of himself to continue the cycle of nature.  He knows that even though he will no longer be alive, he will live on in nature.  He understands that his death is providing life to others.  For that he is grateful.

Ω

Sometimes, we feel like the snake in life, and other times we may feel like the mouse.  It may not seem like we need to sacrifice ourselves for another, which is not what we are advocating.  However, there are times when we may need to provide the support necessary to another, so that others may flourish.   There are times, when we put our own desires and needs aside, in order for the family to survive.  There will be times, unlike in the scenario above, of the mouse and the snake, when the snake will put its needs aside for the mouse.

When we only think about ourselves, and our own needs, we are not understanding the bigger picture.  We need to know in our hearts that what is good for others, is good for me.  When we help others find their passions, and uncover the goodness within them, we are lifted up as well.  Sometimes, our own needs and desires may seem to be ignored by others, but that is sometimes necessary for the good of all.  However, someday others will understand this, and put your needs in front of theirs as well.

Yesterday, we talked about committing internally, rather than externally.  We talked about taking care of yourself like you do for others.   There is a balance that needs to be achieved.  If you only take care of your own needs, you will be isolated in the world and in your relationships.  There must be a balance between taking care of the needs of yourself and in helping others achieve their needs as well.

The snake and mouse relationship may not seem in balance, but the mouse knows that the snake will be absorbed in nature, which will in turn feed the mouse’s family.   Ultimately, the mouse’s sacrifice will turn up in the food that his descendants will someday consume.  The mouse understands that the snake and he are one, in nature – just like every creature walking this planet are  one.

InspiraCard

Let go of the score card, keeping track of the “good deeds” you do for one another.  Rather, follow your heart and give what needs to be given, and some day you may realize that you are giving to yourself!

Written Tue, Sep 9, 2014 8:07 – 8:20 AM MT