Letting Go – Day 5
In the Galapagos archipelago, plants and animals alike have adapted to the changing needs of constantly evolving populations, as the islands themselves change through volcanic activity, and the El Niño weather phenomenon sweeps through every seven years or so, decimating huge numbers of existing populations. Animals have the incredible capacity to ‘roll with the punches,’ letting go of past understandings of who or what they were as conditions morph and present new challenges. Some researchers have expressed surprise at the animals found there that usually live in very different climes, but the animals themselves hold no such regard for propriety. They have followed the currents and the food to a place that supports them, whether they are ‘supposed’ to be there or not.
Here’s another example. Have you ever watched a kitten come across something previously unknown to them? There may be trepidation at first, but after a few moments to assess the situation, curiosity wins out. In another few moments, the paw is batting at the new thing, testing it to see if it means them harm. Assessment over, the work really begins: every new thing is a new toy to a kitten. They will play their way through the fear of the unknown to a state of frenzied exhaustion, where they’ll flop beside their new best friend-thing and fall into a deep and trusting sleep. Kittens have an incredible sense of curiosity that allows them to let go of their fear quickly to arrive at a more trusting perspective. What if we could all let go of our fears and trepidation and adopt a more curious approach? We’d no longer be so wary of those we don’t know, or of leaving behind the things we believe keep us safe. Safety doesn’t exist outside of you; it exists within you, in your ability to adapt to the changes in your life. Let go of any beliefs to the contrary. Relax your outlook to adopt the trust of the kitten and the collaborative mindset of the Blue-footed Booby.
