Choices. Choices.

“Are you a decision-maker?  Are you the one who is in control of your choices?  What is natural?  Who or what should be choosing, when it comes to decisions about your life?”

 -Master Johwa, Saturday Spirituality Workshop, Westfield, NJ

            As I hear the questions being posed, it is very obvious to me what the answers are.  However, at that moment I am faced with a challenge that directly tests my actions instead of my intelligence and understanding.  My intelligence and logical reasoning says: Yes.  I am a decision-maker, I am in control and I choose things for myself.  This is natural and the way it should be for everyone. 

            I have had my hands up over my head with my elbows slightly bent for several minutes now.  It was my choice to put them there and now I continue to choose to keep them there.  My arms get heavier with each passing moment and my shoulders and back start to complain. 

“So often we hear motivational, inspiring quotes to help us understand that progress is not easy, but we must persevere.  Don’t give up.  You can do it.  We know that struggle is very much necessary.” –Master Johwa continues

            Hearing these cliché phrases for motivation does not help me calm the discomfort I am facing and I begin to feel emotionally agitated.  I think to myself: Easier said than done.  At least 10 minutes have passed and I continue to hold my arms up.  I am now sweating and can feel a slight trembling in my arms and hands.  I hear suggestive thoughts in my mind: You don’t have to do this.  Take a break for one second. 

            I do not put my arms down.  I am choosing arms up and I can’t help but continually contemplate the other option.        

“If you are too comfortable, then you are living a habitual life.  You are not the decision-maker in this case.  Life is just happening.  Things just come and you did not choose it.” 

-Master Johwa