There are many stories of spiritual masters embracing the presence of an annoying student in their community. There is even one story that documents a teacher paying an irritating person to live among his students. From an everyday perspective, this is difficult to comprehend. We generally work hard to avoid people and things that we find annoying so they don’t bother us.
From a deeper spiritual perspective, however, irritation can be an important teacher and indicator that we are making progress on our path. Being able to remain centered and awake even when we feel uncomfortable is much more impressive than doing so in an environment where everything is to our liking. ~ Things That Annoy Us, Madisyn Taylor
When was the last time you were annoyed by something or someone? With whom was your last argument? It’s really easy to recall, right? Annoyances and arguments often trigger us OUT OF ALIGNMENT, out of our stability, ease and peace.
I am learning to notice when I am out of balance sooner by stating this intention: I witness when I’m out of alignment. I choose to see love and peace instead. I step back and let the Divine lead the way. 💞
The emotional trigger that begins an argument may have little to do with your present situation, but has dug up a wound. When we find ourselves in an argument, we may feel like we are losing control of emotions that have taken on lives of their own. When we can become aware that this is happening, taking a deep breath can help us step back from the situation. Once we can separate ourselves from the heat of the moment, we may find that the emotional trigger that began the argument has little to do with the present situation, but may have brought up feelings related to something else entirely. Looking honestly at what caused our reaction allows us to consciously respond more appropriately to the situation and make the best choices. ~ Stepping Back from Anger, Madisyn Taylor
We spare ourselves, and those closest to us, drama and pain when we practice awareness and a quick comeback toward love and equanimity. However, it’s important to honor our feelings. “True healing occurs when you give yourself permission to feel whatever feelings live below the triggers. Feeling the pain allows it to pass through you, and strips away its power.” ~ Gabby Bernstein
Steps to Reconcile = to restore to harmony, to settle differences, to make consistent
- Make the first move (shows maturity).
- Handle with humility.
- Remember, you own the offer, not the result.
Who do you need to reach out to?
“Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work, so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.” ~ James 1:2-4, The Message
I choose to see love and peace instead of annoyances and arguments. I step back and let the Divine lead the way. 💞