As we come to the end of the year, it can be a time to reflect on how we are living.

My old choreography teacher, Athina Vahla used to repeatedly ask us, “What is your intention?” In my mind, what she was asking was clear—pay attention to every detail and embody it. My brain was onboard, but my body was separate.

We live in a world that is hell bent on consuming itself in the pursuit of happiness. Wasting resources, raping the planet. There is a lot of separation and sadly little economy. We leave lights on, cook too much food, waste is a big part of our lives and we are actively encouraged in our grab bag, three for two lifestyle to do it. Leaving us “fed up” and “pre-occupied”.

And our answer is often to fill up more, eat fast food, have a cigarette, buy meaningless gifts, look for the quick fix, thereby perpetuating the cycle. If we cannot be compassionate and connect to ourselves, how can we be compassionate to others or our environment?

So, What is your intention?

Walk the talk.

Consumerism or compassion?

Having or happiness?

Resignation or revolution?

Ignorance or illumination?

Selfishness or sharing?

Trash or truth?

Money or mindfulness?

Apathy or action?

Separation or synergy?

We (myself included!!) must empty more, use less…give a hug, a cake, a poem or even share this 3 minute video…

“To one established in non-stealing, all wealth comes” ~ Patanjali sutra 2:37

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Editor: Rachel Nussbaum

Photo: Author’s Own