Thirty years ago, on Hurricane Island in Penobscot Bay Maine, I was trying to coach a young mother navigating a ropes obstacle course. My initial efforts were resounding failures!
I started with calm voice, delivering facts, information, and instruction when required for the circumstances. To me it made perfect sense. I could see what she could not. Her actions in response did not lead to success.
I transitioned to an authoritative command and control approach. I skipped sharing any data not required. I was direct and to the point. I knew what she needed. The outcome did not change or take either of us closer to being successful.
In a moment of external inspiration, I knew that we both needed in that moment. I am not sure if it was the rays of sunlight filtering through the tall pines which triggered the insight. I often credit the desperation I was feeling within. In my awareness, which brought a flood of undesired memories of other moments of desperation, one instruction above all others stood out! I heard it as a command to myself as well as to the young mother.
“Give me a deep cleansing breath.”
Inhale slowly, deeply, and fully. Pause. Let everything within go. When it feels like your lungs are empty, push a bit harder. Release all which is within. Let go of the air you have consumed, let go of the tensions and fears which are dominating, release everything.
In taking life’s whisper to heart, I found myself embraced by peace and slowed by the assurance only found in the moment. We connected in that moment, trusting something outside both of us, collaborating on the journey.
A wise man left us a reminder; “Like servants, alert to their master’s commands, like a maiden attending her lady, we’re watching and waiting, holding our breath, awaiting your word of mercy.” (Psalm 123.2) What follows is a call repeat Hurricane’s moment; release, left mercy embrace, and be fully present.
Hurricane’s outcome was unimaginable. Embracing the call to release, to be in the moment, created new possibilities.
