I have been feeling the unrest for months, looking at where my Passion has gone; sensing a shift was inevitable.
Change arrived with the dawn of 2012! and I am beginning to see what was missing and why. For six years I have practiced yoga and svadyaya (self study) at The Shanti. Traveling many nights a week to and from. Each day calling to place a ride request, anticipating the return call announcing my ride times. Waiting for the bus to arrive and waiting for my turn to be dropped off. In each day of anticipation I was slowly being depleted of willpower, slowly feeling more and more powerless to exert influence. And practicing Contentment :) Which is a good thing (different than complacent.)
Today as I sat and awaited the new day, I began to write of the things that were new within me. Mirage also awaiting the Light of day to be fed. . . .
Now to back up. The decision to stop traveling to yoga classes 'in town' was born of the desire to help my brother transition from his current impoverished housing to a decent domicile and our vacation to Hawaii which comes mid session. We have been enjoying swim classes at a senior retirement center a half mile away which has a tremendous fitness center. For $45.00 I can take unlimited classes and swim for hours each day, No rides required! My new classes include yoga, aqua core, posture and balance, weight training and yoga-pilates.
I feel so Joyful to walk there in the morning or afternoon and I have trained Mirage to guide me along the hallways of the Waterford to it's entry, outdoors to the gated entrance, up the street to a crosswalk and along the unlit area that leads to our street. It's only a 15 minute transit. There is such freedom in all of this!
Other perks include greeting the residents as they admire my sweet dog. Putting Mirage through her 'paces':"Mirage, Sit, stay, lie down, say your prayers and heel."
The seniors we meet Love my dog and truly marvel at her intelligence and obedience.
I am enjoying a new routine and feel stronger. I am also shifting in other ways as my 'power' grows, in ways I haven't yet realized.
I turned in a job application to be a Substitute Yoga Teacher there. I have been so concerned about my Fairway Village students safety, because I can't see them when we are arranged in a circle.I changed the arrangement. At the new class, she teaches in the Dark!!! silhouetted by rope lighting.I see that my teaching style, is less utilitarian, I bring an energetic heart connection to clesses. I haven't had an interview and they may have someone on staff who could sub in a pinch. I am happy that I see myself as employable and have the desire to be helpful and visible. In no way am I challenging the present yoga teacher. I am truly enjoying her unique style and learning how differently we share our love of yoga with others.
Sincerely, Susan and Mirage
(Who is adjusting to being an actual guide dog.)