Elder Muse/Day14: Be Water, My Friend

South Yuba River, N. California/Photography by Gaye Abbott

These days it seems to many of us that the world has “gone crazy”. We can hear about what is happening in seconds from across the planet through news sources that are most often based on assumptions that are not grounded, appealing to our human need for “survival at any cost”, and cloaked in fear.

I have been thinking recently that maybe now we just have a different kind of “crazy” with all of the technological “advances” that translate to being instantly connected on so many different levels. A very stressful “flight or fight” crazy.

Before all of these innovations we more or less only knew what was happening in our own little part of the world or even village. If it directly adversely affected our daily living then it necessitated our paying attention and taking effective action. The entire planet’s woes were not in our face so to speak.

Trying to nip the “gone crazy” scenario in the bud I know that I can only be effective, remain centered and grounded, maintain well being, and be of service if I don’t buy into the constant barrage of news feeds, social media, television, and conversations based in fear and assumptions. I have choice as to how and from what sources I learn about the state of the world, my country and community.

Some guidance during these, what could be called, very stressful times is sincerely appreciated. Today this came to my attention and I am bringing it to yours. Wise practices to take to heart every day from a Martial Arts Master of how to move, express, and be present in our individual and collective lives…..

Be Water, My Friend:

The Teachings of Bruce Lee

-by Shannon Lee

Bruce Lee’s daughter, distills the wisdom and philosophy of the legendary martial artist into practical lessons for life.

Here are ten lessons from the book:

1. Embrace Flexibility: Like water, be adaptable and open to change. This allows you to navigate obstacles and find new paths to success.

2. Cultivate Inner Strength: Develop mental and emotional resilience to stay calm and focused in the face of challenges.

3. Live Authentically: Be true to yourself and your values. Authenticity leads to a more fulfilling and honest life.

4. Pursue Continuous Improvement: Always seek to grow and learn. Strive to be better today than you were yesterday.

5. Balance Hard and Soft: Recognize when to be assertive and when to be gentle. Balance strength with compassion and determination with patience.

6. Focus on the Present: Practice mindfulness and stay present in the moment. This enhances your awareness and effectiveness in everything you do.

7. Simplify Your Life: Eliminate unnecessary complexities. Focus on what truly matters and let go of distractions.

8. Embody Humility: Stay humble and open to learning from others. Recognize that there is always more to learn and experience.

9. Face Fear Courageously: Confront your fears and use them as opportunities for growth. Fear can be a powerful teacher if you let it.

10. Flow with Life’s Rhythms: Accept the natural ebb and flow of life. Embrace both the highs and lows, understanding that they are part of the journey.

These lessons encapsulate Bruce Lee’s philosophy of life, emphasizing flexibility, resilience, and continuous personal growth.

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31 days of Daily Elder Muse blog posts accessed from the unfolding of the day – not planned or scheduled. Yes, the Muse is back again during this powerful and challenging shift time on our planet. May these words, stories and images assist you to remember who you are….and how you can be of service.

I have no idea what will arise…..but then do we really know ahead of time what our moment to moment daily experience will be? We are only asked to pay attention and attend with open artistry. ~Gaye Abbott

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Gaye Abbott, Wildly Free Elder, 07/28/24