I recently read a couple interesting books by Michael Singer, The Untethered Soul and The Surrender Experiment. They’ve given me a lot to think about.

One of the things I’ve been pondering is how much I have in common with things like flowers and flags. Really!

When flower buds appear, they emerge fresh and tidy. They’re eye-catching and pretty, but some of their appeal centers on the anticipation of what they will soon become. As soon as they’ve opened up, their petals unveil a miraculous transformation. In full bloom, flowers take beauty to a deeper level.

I see flags in a similar light. Their appearance is neat and orderly when they’re rolled or folded. Once unfurled, open and freely flapping in the breeze, they can become majestic and awe-inspiring.

Now I realize I’ve lived much of my life like that closed bud or that flag in storage. Trying to be disciplined and in control, I’ve often kept a tight grip on my heart and mind. I convinced myself I was managing all right. Keeping that tight hold made me feel like I was in control.

The truth, I’ve discovered, is that’s just an illusion. I really have little control over my life or anything else. But because it’s the way I’ve always done things, it’s hard to let go.

Singer’s books have taught me that if I want to experience life at its richest, I need to release my hold on my heart and mind. I need to let go of the false notion that my way of thinking is the best and only way. I must stop resisting change and learn to accept and embrace what I’m given.

I believe we are all meant to live our lives to the fullest. For many years I settled for ordinary, but no more. Now I long to experience life at its most exquisite. With that goal in mind I unclasp my crossed arms to stop shutting out the parts of the world I’m not inclined to love. Like the flower with petals unfolded to soak up the sunshine, I consciously throw my arms open wide, ready to embrace whatever is before me.

I soften my stance, no longer inclined to dig in my heels and remain rigid in my opinions and preferences. Instead, I attempt to look more deeply, listen more openly, and love more unconditionally. With focused determination and lots of practice, I hope to shake free from the limiting beliefs of my past. Then, finally rid of all those old attachments, like the unfurled flag, I’ll be free to flow and dance with the wind.