| Defense Mechanisms |
by Madisyn Taylor We all have defense mechanisms that we've developed over time, often without being aware of it. In times of trouble, the behaviors that have worked to get us past challenges with the least amount of pain are the ones that we repeat; even when part of us knows they no longer work. Such behavior is a natural response from our mental and physical aspects. But because we are spiritual beings as well, we have the ability to rise above habits and patterns to see the truth that lay beyond. And from that moment on, we can make choices that allow us to work directly from that place of truth within us.
Most of our defense mechanisms were developed in childhood; from the moment that we realized crying would get us the attention we craved. Passive aggressive ways of communicating may have allowed us to get what we needed without being scolded, punished or laughed at, so we learned to avoid being direct and honest. Some of us may have taken refuge in the lives of others, discovering ways to direct attention away from ourselves entirely. Throwing ourselves into projects or rescuing others from themselves can be effective ways to avoid dealing with our own issues. And when people are truly helped by our actions, we get the added bonus of feeling heroic. But while defenses can keep away the things we fear, they can also work to keep our good from us.
When we can be honest with ourselves about what we truly desire, then we can connect our desires to the creative power of the spirit within us. Knowing that we are one with the energy of the universe allows us release any need for defense. Trusting that power, we know that we are exactly where we are meant to be, and that challenges bring gifts of growth and experience. When we can put down arms raised in defense, then we are free to use our hands, minds, hearts and spirits to mold and shape our abundant energy to create and live our lives.
| DailyOM Course Spotlight by Gina Lake The key to happiness is being awake and aware of what is really happening in every moment rather than being absorbed in thoughts about the past, future, your life, other people, and the many other thoughts we get lost in. These thoughts don't add to our life or enhance our experience of life but detract from the potential joy, peace, and contentment inherent in each moment. Happiness is in our control, since where we focus our attention is in our control. When we focus on what the mind is telling us, we suffer; when we focus on what is real and true in this moment, we align with our true self and experience joy, peace, and contentment. Each day of this course will help you see through the egoic mind and the suffering it causes and will encourage you to live more in the moment and less in your mind. The happiness you will uncover over the next sixty days is the true and ever-present happiness that comes from contact with your true self.
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