The natural state of the body is wellness. When we are sick, we are out of rhythm with the body’s band. This discordant note signals a call to attention, a potent stopping point to re-evaluate who we are and where we are going.

Most of us accept sickness, either mental or physical malaise, as part of life. It is true that being human we are certainly subject, at any time, to a number of afflictions, but there is a powerful distinction between accepting our humanness and allowing illness to be a constant part of our lives. This does not mean we should chastise ourselves when we are not in top form, but rather that we look at these times with an eye of discovery.

This is the perfect instant to stop. We breathe deeply and realize there is something very important to learn. We say to ourselves, “I was well and now I’m sick. What has changed or needs to be changed? What do I need to do, or not do, to once again be in tune with the body?”

Although it often appears that we woke up one Monday with cancer or out of nowhere, suffered a heart attack, this is not really what is happening. The universe works in very subtle ways and incrementally attempts to wake us up. All illness, regardless of what it is, is a cry for consciousness.

This is a defining moment. How we choose to deal with our illness will continue to lay the groundwork going forward for the rest of our lives. Do we rail at the gods of fate and call our destiny unfair or do we become stoic and resigned, determined never to question this unfortunate turning of events. Either way, we remain disconnected from our bodies and ourselves, hoping, praying and believing there will be a reversal. But the turn-around never comes.

That’s because only a different way of looking at all the old stuff can trigger a transition, stop the forward momentum. Unless we are open and willing to have no answers for a while, we will never be able to affect a change. Not knowing is the beginning of knowing, and we must pass through this seemingly barren plain, unaware that it holds the fruits of wellness.

By choosing to remain awake regardless, we take control. We resolve to be honest with ourselves, no matter how much it hurts, and to stay connected to the most intimate parts of our lives. Our vulnerability is what opens us and we are determined to feel no matter how much it scares us. And then we let go, knowing we are not in charge. This is the way we heal.

from Reality Works - Let It Happen Copyright Chandra Alexander