Some people float through life in the present moment. They may occasionally worry about this or that, but they generally aren’t obsessed with the future or the past. I honestly don’t know too many of those people.
Most of the people I run into were raised differently, to be constantly investing in one’s future, and improving on their past selves. The methods of improvement depended on who raised them, and what values were instilled in them by their surroundings. Many people never make it past the base human needs of survival.
Things like food, clean water, shelter, warmth, etc are all they continually focus on for the majority of their lives because they remain ever-so-slightly out of reach. Living paycheck to paycheck doesn’t allow a lot of room to worry about one’s spiritual path, therapy, or working through their trauma.
If you’re unfamiliar with Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, they align remarkably well with the 7-chakra system that most people have come to know.
There is way more to be learned about these subjects, to be sure; but looking at them together makes it ring clear: for many spiritual growth, to quote Shakespeare, “is a honor that I dream not of.”
I try to remind myself of this idea when I’m feeling overwhelmed by my challenges and obstacles. It helps me to see them less of a nuisance, but as an opportunity that many may never get the chance to participate in. I call these moments the ‘Gift of Practice.’
My friends and family groan when I pull this phrase out, but it’s the most accurate depiction of what occurs. Moments give us the opportunity to practice honoring our values and using our tools. The more we practice, the better we’ll get at identifying what throws us out of balance.
If you’re interested in learning more about discovering your Core Values, take a look at our program.
