In the dance of life, an ancient wisdom echoes through the ages: "Be like water and let life flow." These words, often attributed to the legendary martial artist Bruce Lee, carry profound meaning when applied to the art of living. Just as water adapts to its surroundings, finding its way around obstacles and shaping itself to the contours of its environment, so too can we learn to navigate the twists and turns of our own journey. The song “Be Like Water” written by PJ Morton touched my soul after hearing it a year ago. I decided to add the line “Let things go so you can grow” and attach it to monthly posts I share on my social media page. In this blog, we'll explore the transformative power of embracing life's flow, letting go of what no longer serves us, allowing ourselves the space to grow, and how the simple lyrics impacted me in 2023.
The Wisdom of Water: Water is a symbol of adaptability and resilience. It doesn't resist the rocks in its path; instead, it flows around them. Similarly, in life, we encounter obstacles, challenges, and unexpected turns. By adopting a fluid mindset, we can learn to adapt to change rather than resist it. Just as water wears down mountains over time, our ability to embrace change can lead to personal growth and transformation.
Letting Go to Grow: Water doesn't cling to anything; it simply flows. Likewise, in our journey, holding onto past grievances, regrets, or negative emotions can weigh us down. One of the fundamental principles of being like water is the art of letting go. Just as a river releases its grip on debris and carries it away, we too must learn to release what no longer serves us. This can include outdated beliefs, toxic relationships, or self-imposed limitations. To truly grow, it's essential to release the unnecessary baggage that burdens our hearts and minds. Letting go of grudges and forgiving both ourselves and others liberates us, allowing us to float freely and unencumbered, creating space for new experiences, opportunities, and personal growth to flow into our lives.
Resisting the Current: Sometimes, we find ourselves swimming against the current of life, resisting the natural flow. This resistance can lead to stress, frustration, and a sense of stagnation. Instead of fighting against the tide, consider going with the flow. When we align ourselves with the natural rhythms of life, we tap into a source of energy and inspiration that propels us forward. It's about finding the path of least resistance, not as a sign of weakness, but as a strategy for sustainable progress.
Embracing Change: Change is the only constant in life, and the ability to embrace it is a hallmark of those who embody the essence of water. Rather than fearing change, view it as an opportunity for growth and renewal. Just as water can take on different forms—solid as ice, liquid as water, and airy as vapor—embrace the ever-changing nature of your own life journey. The end of 2023 looks entirely different than how 2023 started for me. I was met with challenges in my health, relationships, work, family passing away, and just getting older. I played Be Like Water so many times I lost count. A line in the song says, “Be like water, where we’ll end up, we don’t know, water, just let it flow.” Reflecting on 2023 95% of what I planned for the year was changed, monthly, weekly, and sometimes on a daily. Oh, I wanted to be frustrated and in previous years the challenges would have taken me out, but I decided to embrace change! I’m so thankful that I did because I’m still here even though it doesn’t look like I thought it would, I still see the promise of tomorrow.
Cultivating Resilience: Water doesn't break when it encounters a rock; instead, it finds a way around it. Similarly, cultivating resilience means facing challenges with a flexible mindset. By reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth, we can bounce back stronger and more resilient than before. Life's adversities become stepping stones on the path to self-discovery and personal development.
Going with the Flow: Being like water doesn't mean being passive; it means being in harmony with the natural order of life. Just as a river flows towards its destination, we too can move towards our goals with purpose and intention. Going with the flow doesn't imply surrendering control but rather understanding that not everything is within our control. It's about finding a balance between effort and acceptance.
Find Your Path: PJ Morton’s lyrics remind us that “obstacles seem to be everywhere elevators out of order, use the stairs but don’t you let it make you question your path….” Water doesn't fight against the rocks in its path; it patiently finds a way around them. Similarly, in life, we encounter obstacles that may seem insurmountable. Rather than battling against these challenges, take a step back, reassess, and find alternative routes. Understanding that detours are a natural part of the journey enables us to navigate life's obstacles with a sense of calm and determination.
Cultivate Inner Peace: Water, in its tranquil state, reflects a sense of calmness and serenity. By cultivating inner peace, we equip ourselves with the ability to handle life's storms with grace. Meditation, mindfulness, and self-reflection are powerful tools to help us connect with our inner selves, fostering a deep sense of tranquility that allows us to navigate the turbulent waters of life with composure.
The Power of Flow: Flow is a state of being fully immersed and engaged in the present moment. When we go with the flow of life, we experience a sense of ease and harmony. Like a river flowing effortlessly, we can achieve more when we align ourselves with the natural rhythm of existence. Embrace the power of flow, and let life carry you to new and exciting destinations.
In the grand tapestry of life, we can find inspiration in the simplicity and wisdom of water. Be like water—fluid, adaptable, and resilient. Letting go of what no longer serves us allows for personal growth and transformation. Embrace change, be resilient in the face of adversity, and go with the flow. As you navigate the river of life, remember the words of Bruce Lee: "Empty your mind, be formless, shapeless, like water. You put water into a cup; it becomes the cup. You put water into a bottle; it becomes the bottle." So, be like water, and let life flow.
On the eve of 2024, the last day of 12.31.23 (123123) I have no idea if the vision/goals that I am creating, some call them resolutions, will come to fruition or not. I do know that I’m here for the journey. I won’t break, I’ll mold into the shape that cultivates growth within me!
#ONEPEARLMOVEMENT #DRTARAREED #REEDWITHPURPOSE #BELIKEWATER #LETLIFEFLOW #GROWTHMINDSET #PURPOSED #EMPOWERED #AUTHENTIC #RESILIENT
