Brothers and Sisters in the Force,
Today, we gather to contemplate the impermanence of things, a truth echoed in Jedi Teaching #4. Jedi practice non-attachment, maintaining an awareness that the cycles of creativity and renewal in the Force give rise to phenomena as others pass away. Love, like the seasons, changes. Sometimes, those we hold dear move from our orbit, leaving a space where a bond once thrived. That can lead to heartbreak.
This impermanence recently touched me personally. I found myself in a brief, yet impactful relationship. We had a unique plan – while I embarked on a long-awaited solo journey in my small RV, we’d use this month apart to decide if our paths could truly merge. This type of nomadic life, which I once deemed incompatible with a relationship, was suddenly an exciting possibility with the right person. Sadly, my partner chose a different path.
It’s natural to feel a tempest of emotions: sadness for what is lost, anger at what might have been, or even fear of facing the future alone. Remember, the Force flows through you even in this time of upheaval. It is a source of strength and solace.
Through meditation, we can find that inner peace that allows us to acknowledge the pain without succumbing to it. We can reflect on the gratitude we hold for the time spent together, the lessons learned, the laughter shared. Those threads of connection, though transformed, don’t vanish entirely. They become part of the tapestry of our being, woven into the fabric of our Jedi journey.
This doesn’t mean pretending the heartbreak doesn’t exist. Feel your emotions, but don’t let them control you. Let them flow through you like a river, eventually calming into a gentle current.
Here are some ways to navigate this passage with the wisdom of the Force:
• Practice Gratitude: Reflect on the positive aspects of the relationship. What did you learn? How did your partner help you grow?
• Maintain Your Practices: Dedicate time to the activities that nourish your soul. Whether it’s exercise, art, spending time in nature, or simply journaling your thoughts, immerse yourself in practices that bring you peace and self-awareness.
• Seek Support: Don’t isolate yourself. Reach out to your Jedi community, your friends, your mentors. Talking about your feelings can be a source of comfort and strength.
The Force teaches us that all things are connected. The love you shared wasn’t a mistake, but a stepping stone on your path. As you move forward, carry the lessons learned and the gratitude for that connection. Remember, the Force is always with you, guiding you through joy and sorrow, in love and in loss.
May the Force be with you, and may you find peace and acceptance in this time of transition.
