For many of us, the beginning of the year is the time when we make new resolutions and set our intentions for what we would like to create.
During this beautiful transition we can reflect on all the happenings of the previous months and year. We can see what has helped in our growth by inquiring into our strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately these reflections bring about greater understanding, wisdom and insight.
This type of introspection can help us in setting the tone for how we want to live our life and make the best use of the time that we have.
I always like to reflect on these words “my life is precious”…. In knowing this, what is most important! For me it is about being conscious and connecting to friends, family and loved ones. As well as my students and teachers.
One of the ways I like to be more conscious and connected is to listen more attentively. Also, by being open to new ideas and perceptions while letting go of my conditioned thoughts.
Here is one of my favorite stories about a Yoga Master and the overflowing teacup.
Many years ago, there was a wise yoga master and people from all over the place would seek her guidance and wisdom. They would ask her to enlighten them in the deep teachings of yoga. She seldom turned anyone away. One day a prestigious man, who was a learned scholar came to visit the master and to see what such a lady could teach him. “I have come today to ask you to teach me about the great yoga philosophies and wisdom that you are so famous for. Grant me the knowledge that you have.” The tone of the important man’s voice was one used to getting his own way.
The great yogini smiled and said that they should discuss the matter over a cup of tea. When the tea was served the woman poured his visitor a cup. She poured the tea until it rose to the rim and began to spill over the table and finally onto the clothes of the wealthy man. Finally, the visitor shouted, “Enough.! You are spilling the tea all over. Can’t you see the cup is full?”
The wise lady stopped pouring and smiled at his guest. “You are like this teacup, so full that nothing more can be added. Come back to me when your cup is empty. Please feel free to come back to me with humility and an empty mind.”