Try as I might to the contrary, even after all this time, I'm still left a little at odds once I hit that "Publish Post" button.
I am besieged by "What Ifs" and "So, Now Whats" and my personal favorite, "Does This Really Matter?"
So when I came across this little piece in my recent Yoga Journal, it threw down a mental gauntlet to challenge me. Maybe it can make us all think a little bit about the big picture:
"When faced with a challenge, a helpful mind-set can be found in the concept of Ishvara pranidhana, or nonattachment to the fruits of one's actions. As the ancient sage Patanjali says...Ishvara pranidhana can be a powerful approach that affects the way we approach every action we take.
Patanjali advises us to focus on the quality of an act, rather than on its outcome, leaving the 'fruits' of our actions to something greater.
Patanjali advises us to focus on the quality of an act, rather than on its outcome, leaving the 'fruits' of our actions to something greater.
From this perspective, everything we do becomes an opportunity for practice: We do the very best we can, whether we're running a race, giving a big presentation, or doing the dishes. Regardless of the outcome, the mind is calm, clear, and present because our joy comes from the act itself, rather than the result."
Kate Holcombe
Yoga Journal June 2009
