“You cannot teach a man anything; you can only help him find it within himself.” — Galileo
In thinking about the above quote, it may be taken in many ways given the experience, insight and introspection of the individual. Each of us have had at one time or another, a member of our family, perhaps a close personal friend or loved one become completely disconnected, detached, non-communicative, defensive, hostile, mean-spirited at something we might have said or done in which we are completely and consciously unaware. Perhaps in some circumstances, there exists such a perceived slight that we did not even know or recognize we committed. What follows from this is quite different in each situation, however, there is a similar thread that appears to be the same in most instances, and that is frustration, conflict, misunderstanding, irritation, anger, silence and loss. This experience becomes extremely challenging over a definitive period of time, and these words embellish what must take place within the consciousness of every man . . . Romans 12:2 ”Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
In this phenomenal journey in which we all participate, we meet those that challenge, uplift, encourage, humble, gratify, and cause us to profoundly question our existence. What ultimately becomes obvious when we look beyond the surface of perception or perspective, is knowing in our minds, spirit, hearts and consciousness that we have done everything we could possibly do given all the information we have in the moment for that individual, and then we must accept the reality in knowing we cannot teach, change, guide, direct, instruct, wish or push another human being unless/until that human being finds it within himself. What is most necessary within all of this, is knowing we must let go of any outcome . . . releasing that person with honor, dignity and trusting that you were an instrument of grace for just a moment irregardless of the outcome. We are not always meant to know how all of the intricacies of our life’s journey works, and this is enhanced by the words of Henry David Thoreau . . . “I know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestionable ability of man to elevate his life by conscious endeavor.” Releasing man’s indomitable ego and knowing when to let go, creates conscious mastery over mediocrity creating the potential for personal growth beyond imagination. JLR