Freedom is expensive

In the last packet, the Donovan residents reflected on their journeys of liberation.  As I read their insights and reflect on my own journey, I realize that

Freedom is expensive.

In its chrysalis, it seems that the caterpillar sleeps.  And yet, inside that immobile cocoon, an unimaginable metamorphosis is taking place.  Same goes for us.  On the outside, nothing seems to be changing.  And this can create a lot of impatience and frustration.  And yet, on the inside, we are dissolving, to then rebuild into a completely new creation. 

The cost here is two-fold.  First, we dissolve. This means letting go of past ways of being, past ways of doing, past values, past identity.  Nothing is harder to release than identity.  There is a dying of self that takes place.  And it requires the courage and humility to release and allow this dying process.  With its undoing, pain, mourning and ugly cries (no later than yesterday, for me).

Second, it takes a huge amount of energy to (re)build.  And I find that the greatest amount of energy is not in the construction, but actually in getting – and staying – out of the way.  We live in such a culture of control and doing that I naturally want to take things into my own hands and make things happen.  Oh my, the energy required so that I don’t get into my own way.  Because if I build according to my beliefs, I’ll simply recreate my past.  In other words, re-become a caterpillar.  To become a butterfly – something the caterpillar knows nothing about – I must trust that it’s happening as long as I stay out of the way.

So, freedom is expensive.  AND its return is priceless.  As is evident in several residents’ writing, the peace, joy and wellbeing – in all circumstances – is worth every ounce of work to achieve this freedom.

So, as we invite you to reflect below, what is your liberation?

As we edge out 2020 and step into 2021, what do you release and leave behind?  What have you learned and in what ways have you grown that you embrace and bring with you into 2021?

We wish each of you a massively merry Christmas and the happiest of New Year’s.  May they provide the gifts of love, peace and growth that each of us deserves.  And take a moment of gratitude as you hug those you love extra tight, as the Donovan residents won’t be hugging their kids this Christmas.  We are blessed, today and every day.