Episode 16: There is Wisdom in Change - a podcast by Frank Anderson MD MPH and Lisa Barry

There is Wisdom in Change
How to be a Cow with no Nostrils

In this episode, Frank and Lisa continue exploring awareness in the context of the changing corona virus pandemic. We are all witness to a very changing lifestyle guided both by our intense desire to return to normal life, while at the same time knowing that it could be dangerous. How you move around in the world is a matter of practical concern, but from the awareness perspective, brings up the idea of impermanence. When one “takes a backward step” and looks at each situation from an objective awareness place, the changing nature and impermanence of all things becomes clear. Holding on to the past can be seen as impractical because the past is already gone, and wanting something for the future cannot be guaranteed. The present moment is for sure, and we discuss the wisdom that being present can bring. This whole situation is asking us - in a very pronounced way - to be present. Perhaps then decisions as to how to proceed can be wisdom informed instead of desire informed, wisdom informed instead of conformity informed. There is a freedom in impermanence because no longer being pulled around by thoughts of past regrets or a better future. Its kinda like being a cow with no nostrils (listen to this episode to find out what that means!)

From another perspective, it can be said that “Nothing new appears until something old ceases”. To get a feel for this, we read Rumi’s Poem “The Guest House”

The Guest House

This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.

A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
As an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.

Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.

— Jalaluddin Rumi, translation by Coleman Barks (The Essential Rumi)

Whether or not it's good or bad how do we get to the place where we accept “what is? The only way for the world to realize it's full potential is if more people start to wake up to who they really are, and perhaps exploring awareness will guide us as to how.

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