A sometimes frightening journey
The great mythological heroes of history engage in a frightening journey in which they confront foes with amazing destructive power and they also must confront inner weaknesses and human failings. The inner struggle is often the most important struggle in these stories.
These myths have an allure to humans because the struggle of the hero is actually our struggle. We confront events and circumstances that hold the potential for devastating our lives. At the same time we must come to terms with our own failings and weakness. The failure to do so is often far more destructive to our life's journey than the external events.
As mindfulness becomes a deepening practice, it is common to become more aware, not only of the present moment. or of the strengths we possess (that is part of being mindfully aware) but also of the weaknesses and failing within that threaten our ability to live in a manner that is true to our deepest values. It takes courage to acknowledge this inner struggle. Yet with mindful awareness and the willingness to make decisions that reflect who we choose to be, we too engage in our own hero's (or heroine's) journey. John Weaver, Psy.D.
