Points, objectives, tasks, initiatives, projects, destinations, alterations, changes, transitions, reformations, transformation all equal the same... goals. Each of these represent things we would like to achieve. Sometimes just observing it becomes overwhelming and we loose the ability to see successful implementation. Other times, we over think our approach - the "how" or method by which we will achieve that which we desire. It cripples us and stops us from accomplishment because we simply do not realize that we each possess the power to make it happen.
In prior posts, Chain Reaction and Affirmation, I have referenced the quote by Robert Schuler, "What would you do if you knew you could not fail? It is a very strong statement that provokes deep thought. Let's change it a bit. Ponder this:: What would you do if you knew you possess the power to do anything you set your intentions to do? WOW! A jolt of strength and energy should be coursing through your bloodstream right now, awakening your mind.
The Power of ONE
"The Power of ONE to change a few,
the Power of a few to change many,
the Power of many to change Nations,
always begins with....the Power of ONE."
 |
| Suzanne Africa Engo |
Last week, I was fortunate to experience this first hand. I watched Suzanne "Africa" Engo's documentary "I Love Africa"* which chronicles her journey to raise Aids Awareness. I met Africa through social media without any prior knowledge of her "power". I immediately found her to be a bright, shining light, humorous and an inspirational raw vegan chef. What I did not know is that this wonderful human being decided to raise awareness for this devastating dis-ease by dedicating her life to veganism, incorporating fitness, and then move with her power possession, to change the world...and she did it. She initially started off on a run from New York to Chicago. The success and notoriety propelled her to then run across the world, from Milan, Italy to Cameroon, Africa on behalf of her cause. Prior to becoming a raw vegan, she weighed 250lbs. She used her power to transform herself, loosing 110lbs. Africa then took this power, sharing and spreading it through her infectious smile and positive energy to share with one, many and thus, nations on behalf of her cause. Her power has become international. She demonstrates that all you need is you to start using your power.
"If you build it, they will come" ~Field of Dreams ©1989
Africa's added another initiative to her "plate", encouraging Americans to eat healthy and vegan in the National Fight Against Obesity. As a raw vegan chef, she loves to keep it simple. Here is my take on one of her dishes:
1 sweet potato
handful of walnuts
1 tsp cold pressed coconut oil
Shred or with a noodle tool, make sweet potato noodles, sprinkle nuts and drizzle with coconut oil. Simple, nutritious, and tasty
*for those in the United States, the documentary via this link: I Love Africa, is avail for free viewing until the end of the year at which time it will be produced into a DVD for international distribution. May her story inspire you.
Power to say NO
Sometimes, you don't need power to start something new or to transform the world Sometimes, you need the complete opposite - just a little power to change an element in your surroundings for your well being. Sometimes, you need to possess the power to say "no". Many of us are people pleasers. I am guilty. For many years, I worried about providing the right answer, the right solution for acceptance or judgment. So, I always said "yes" to people, situations, and things that I should not have. It wore on me down both professionally and personally. Everyone else was happy because I took on their projects and goals. I made it happen for them. Yet, I was not happy. I had not taken the time to please myself. I had not said "yes" to me. It was not until I learned how not to be co-dependent, that I learned how to say "no". Sometimes, if we remember to say "no", we will remember to say "yes" to those elements we need for our well being: air, sun, water, freedom, tranquility, positive energy, and light, each of which empower us to be the best we can be. Begin to say "no" to situations and things that drain and wear you down - that steal your power. Regain possession, realize there is a difference between giving and doing with selfless humility and giving away that which fuels you. Initially, practice saying "no". It's okay - the world will still be standing after you say it. Look into the mirror to see how you look saying no. As you say it, observe how your jaw bones move. "Feel" it physically. After you say it, smile and remember that in order to achieve your goals, sometimes you have to say no in order to say "yes" to make things happen, and that you must first realize that not only do you possess the power to do so, but that YOU are the only ONE who can, and the rest of the world will follow.
Namaste.
Yoga: Ardha Chandrasana Half Moon Pose
Highlights the power of one. It is an alignment or standing pose in that improves balance, flexibility and anchors grounding of legs and ankles. The possession of this one pose, is powerful enough to strengthen the core of the entire body.
No comments:
Post a Comment