Thursday, May 19, 2011

Wonderword: Emptiness

Here is a fact. A clarification if you will, to those who think that life in a paradise island is perfect. It is not. Love isn't painless, work isn't easier and life isn't a bowl of cherries just because you live on a beach.

In the past few days I have been reminded that happiness doesn't come from a pristine beach or a scenic hillside or the energetic city. It doesn't come from anywhere else but within. How does that happen? It happens when you are filled with love. And how do you fill yourself with love? By ridding yourself of all the thoughts and memories, of the negative things that love cannot exist with.

I am learning to empty myself. Clean my thoughts. Bring myself back to a space where there are no memories, no pain, no hard-feelings, no expectations. Just a pure and clear space that love can fill. This is part of a Hawaiian teaching that involves reciting phrases of love, repentance and gratitude. It's called Ho'oponopono. If you haven't heard of it, try "google-ing" it. :) It is a simple and effective process but it isn't easy to do. In fact the hardest part for me is the cleaning, the emptying.

How can I, when I am little ms. rational. When problems arise, I am always ready with reason, judgement and a witty retort. I've got a background of education and experience I am proud of, and use to support me. So now, when something upsets or affects me, am I supposed to just empty myself of all those to experience pure love and happiness?

The answer is yes.

No reasoning, no proven studies, no preconceived ideas, no negativity. Empty.
So here's to that essential step, that beautiful and elusive state called emptiness. I hope I learn to get there soon.





All photos of "emptiness" from We Heart It

4 comments:

she said...

interesting post.. hhmm, Ho'oponopono, i'll try to google it! nice blog, i'm adding you to my daily reads :)

Ria said...

This is such a great concept. One that I need as well. Thanks for this, Denise. :-)

Denise Nicole said...

Ria, you're welcome! If you want to know more about it, ask Ms. Karen. :)

Denise Nicole said...

Hi She. Thanks! Yeah, I suggest you find out more about Ho'oponopono, the more people who do it, the better. :)