Equanimity

welcoming everything

This does not equate with passivity or non-involvement, a detachment to the degree of negligence or numbness. Equanimity is a result of holding space for both our attractions and aversions, likes and dislikes (ragas and dveshas). The neutral spaciousness of equanimity is a result of not wanting things to be different, not wishing for things to be otherwise. Equanimity grows out of gratitude of things being exactly the way they are, completely accepting and appreciating life as is. It is not a mental construct, an escapism into not caring, nor surface level - but rather an active involvement with life as it is, at a heart level appreciating everything as is.

Equanimity is a neutral space where all experiences are welcome, a place where we learn from whatever comes our way. It is a space where we get deeper and deeper intimately involved with life, seeing things as they truly are, moving beyond our projections, desires and expectations. It is a space where every expression is free to be whatever it is. Equanimity is a space were we deeply sense true freedom, fountaining from within ourselves.

When these things are new concepts and ideas, new tools for responding differently to life, there may be effort applied to reach a state of holding space for it all. And just like with a lot of practices, it is a life long process. Life will continue to test our inner peace, the foundation of attention, and the willingness to go deeper and deeper into the spacious freedom.

So, without judgement, enter into the space of equanimity, go there often, nurture the relationship with all experiences with a willingness to accept things exactly as they are. Nurture trust and willingness, as this will make it a smoother transition into the spaciousness of all-inclusive appreciation for each and every experience. Through this work you will be provided lessons through each experience. Let every experience teach you what is at its core. Equanimity will become your dear friend holding your hand through ups and downs, and eventually the waves will become welcomed - and essential - parts of the journey. It is the movement that is necessary to sustain the world in dual existence. And the same duality of experience is the manifest form of divine perfection. Equanimity is the boat which carries you upon the ocean - waves or no waves, it doesn’t affect the ocean.