Earlier this week I taught a Reiki Level Two certificate course.
When preparing for the day, I’m always well organised. The venue needs to be super clean (and this time it was my home), paperwork organised, food and drink sorted, and the right aromatherapy scent to create a loving sanctuary as people entered the sacred space. Oh, and I always meditate prior so that I am fully in my heart space, grounded and clear with my intention for that day.
This time, something was very different because I had Maggie, my gorgeous and lovable twelve-week-old puppy!
Well, what can I say? It rained the night beforehand, and Maggie during her trips outside to the toilet came in with copious leaves attached to her feet and fur, which fell off as she ran through my home. Then, of course, the wet paw prints on my nicely cleaned floors and the pungent smell of her wet coat. Maggie also seemed more excited than usual, and I found her naughtier than her regular puppy explorations, or at least they were bothering me more.
I found myself a little flustered but felt I didn’t have time to worry about that.
Although the day went well, and Maggie was well received and loved. I felt tense, headachy and tired at the end of the day, which was not my usual self.
I sat and reflected, and by this time Maggie was sound asleep like a beautiful and gentle little fluff ball on my lap, butter wouldn’t melt in her mouth 😉
I thought, why was I so tense? Then, I realised it was so important for me to be professional and no matter what was personally happening in my life the student’s experience was of the utmost importance. I also acknowledged I was a little concerned how Maggie would go for the full day. Now she’d been excellent with individual clients that were only one-hour appointments, but in the back of my mind, I had been worried.
I sat with that notion and then had an epiphany. I felt the same when having friends over to my home for a meal. Everything had to be perfect. Smiling, even my garden and outside area had to be spruced up. If I were caught out, I would feel rather guilty and unprepared, which would unsettle me. Hmm, that was old conditioning from my past!
I mean really! Why would a student see me as unprofessional considering they knew Maggie would be attending and openly delighted in the soon to be meeting?
Having this understanding of myself and my actions, I decided to change my thinking for the second day. My home didn’t need to be perfect, and I didn’t race around ignoring little Maggie, in fact, we had an extra-long play, enjoyed a leisurely breakfast together, and while she rested, I checked I was centred, organised and prepared for the day.
Maggie even enjoyed the quiet of sitting and meditating before the student’s arrival, which was a special time for both of us.
The day itself ran smoothly, and when I reflected that night, I felt relaxed and happy and so was Maggie. I knew that my stress and anxiousness the day beforehand had caused her to feel uncertain and stressed herself, hence the behaviour. She was a great little or should I say large and visible reflection for me to view, a beautiful and unexpected teacher.
Unprovoked, my students commented on how they loved Maggie’s presence, and her energy and how it enriched their time in learning and receiving Reiki. They also didn’t notice the occasional damp leaf Maggie carried into the house on her paws, in fact, they delighted in her antics when trying to smuggle in a stick without being noticed and the many other cute behaviours, and especially the puppy hugs.
You know, we are always learning, and we always have choices. Sometimes, we just need to be the observer of ourselves, stop for a moment, feel the discomfort and listen. Then acknowledge and feel empowered to change or let go of what doesn’t serve to love you. Smiling, it would indeed save the angst and the need for others to mirror our internal emotions. Thank you, little Maggie, love you.
After all, there is an imperfection in perfection. It’s all a matter of perception.
Until next week,
Maria Lacey was born in Australia. She has travelled extensively overseas being led by visions, dreams and spiritual guidance.
Maria writes about life (the human and spiritual path), the adversity, learning, musings and triumphs. A successful entrepreneur with over 18 years in her own business, Maria humorously states, “I am my greatest case study.”
Maria is a qualified Counsellor, Hypnotherapist, Reiki Master Teacher, Spiritual Teacher, Meditation Teacher, Healer, Channel and Speaker.
Maria is currently writing her second book about her spiritual travels.
For further information about the author go to: http://www.marialacey.com.au/
Maria’s first book – https://www.amazon.com/One-Path-Many-Lights-Spiritual-ebook/dp/B00YOIOTIS
Maria Lacey 