DISCIPLINE

Streams are beautiful when they flow over the rocks and through the way already open by years of past sense of direction. We all know it is impossible for a stream to flow upstream and we know the power of water to create a way through and over the rocks.

Discipline is one of the lessons of life that is a practical tool but also a spiritual tool. The Buddhist tradition jokes about accepting the "embarrassment of being you" which allows us to be friendly to ourselves and not demand perfection; but also realize there are healthy ways to work towards change. Stopping the inner critical voice with flowing words of affirmation.
"Compassion begins with ones-self so it can flow freely to others."

Discipline means to live a balanced life of not over-eating, over-working, or even over-exercising, to conger our impulses and face and do not fear the uncomfortable.
Life does say "no" to us and it begins early in our childhood as a normal thing. I think it was easier for me to hear no because i heard it being said to my brother and he would challenge discipline. One advice I would give to parents is to continually affirm the good but be firm when you say no. Let your no mean no.

I am also reading about the important role genes play in cell-growth; and how undisciplined unrestrained cell grow can cause cancer. It is a disruption of DNA sequence. We are entering a time of discovery that is exciting and complex.

Cancer is a disease of the genome; which was caused by a gene that did not do its work of suppressor. A gene called p53 has been discovered and referred to as the "guardian of the genome". Normally p53 is activated when any damage is done to DNA, in order to stop the process of cell replication until the damage can be repaired.

Yesterday as I stopped to visit a lady, in a wheel chair smoking, the first thing she did is defend her smoking habit. She has had a stroke and has also broken her leg and is separated from being with her husband because of the care she needs. They are in their 60's. The need to smoke was greater than the need to be disciplined and suffer through the pain of withdrawal.

God also says no to many of our prayers and many doors are not only shut in our face they can be slammed shut. This is not a time to allow self-pity, or even feelings of unworthiness, to control our thoughts. The more I listen to the stories of others the more I am aware that we all have disappointments and failures and we can give in to our weaknesses or try to find new strength to cope.

A light misty rain is falling as our dear friends gather at a grave side service. We had prayed it would not rain but thankfully we all have umbrellas. The tears of heaven fall on this small group as they share their grief. God also shares with them.

My garden welcomes this refreshing rain. We need water we are being told. We need rain to keep our streams flowing and rain can wash away our tears.