Happy New Year! Who else is ready to put the drama of 2020 in the rear view mirror?
I know I sure am, and I’m excited for a fresh start, because saying goodbye to the old also means welcoming something new—in this case, a brand-spankin’ new year.
A few weeks ago, Rob and I were hiking in the woods and came upon this spot where the land around the trail had been intentionally set on fire—sometimes known as a controlled burn.
The scene was incredibly eerie, almost apocalyptic, yet at the same time, alluring. Out of curiosity, we decided to continue our hike in the burnt area, even though it was smelly and fires continued to smolder. (Don’t worry - we weren’t in danger.)
Controlled burning is often done as part of forest management. By mimicking Mother Nature’s natural process of cleansing through fire, controlled burns improve native plant and animal habitat, reduce the risk of uncontrollable wildfires, and therefore help to manage and restore the forest. After the flames, the forest returns—healthier, stronger and more vibrant than before.
As we walked through the still-smoking landscape, I thought of the Hindu deity, Shiva, the god of destruction, transformation and regeneration. In Hindu mythology, Shiva is the force behind fierce storms, howling winds and destructive fire. Like a controlled burn, the spirit of Shiva reminds us that not only are death and destruction unavoidable, they are necessary—creation depends on them - for out of the ashes of his fires, new life emerges.
Reflecting on 2020, it’s nearly impossible to see anything but a year full of distress. My heart goes out to those who have lost family, friends and jobs at the hands of the pandemic, racial strife and political unrest. Nevertheless, here we are, on the brink of a new year, with the promise of hope.
When COVID, Shiva, or other influences burn down our forest, our house, or our familiar lives, how do we respond? Can we look back on 2020 with new-found wisdom? With gratitude for what we do have? And with a renewed sense of strength?
Periods of disruption bring with them the immense opportunity for creativity, healing and growth.
On the brink of 2021, many of us feel burnt. As a society, so much of what we knew as normal has been razed to the ground. Now we have the privilege and responsibility of rebuilding, growing, and transforming. With January 1 around the corner, each and every one of us has a fresh start.
What does a fresh start look like for you?
If you’re feeling stuck, reach out. Need the support of a coach or community? Drop me a line. My one-on-one coaching programs and online yoga community provide a proven system, accountability and support. We’re in this together.
Hopefully yours,
Lisa