Burnin' Up

"The most powerful force on Earth is the human soul on fire."

Ferdinand Foch

Get still.

Close your eyes.

Pay attention to your breathing. Is it deep…or…is it shallow?

Focus your attention on your lower abdomen.

Imagine a flame burning.

Is this flame bold and roaring?

or…

Is it faint and tired?

This internal flame is our very life force, and when we experience burn
out, our fire becomes low. You know it is weak when you feel
vulnerable, self-conscious, unworthy, doubtful, negative…and you will
look for others to feed your fire. Nourishing this flame is what allows us emotional freedom, creative awareness, and the stamina to achieve the dreams of our very best selves.

Debbie Ford used this analogy in The Right Questions, and I have not been able to stop thinking about it since I read it. The image of a flame burning so brightly and forcefully that no wind is strong enough to put it out resonates deeply. Think of every decision you make in terms of wood and water.

Are your choices building your fire?

or…

Are you slowly putting out your own flame? 

Some decisions that keep our flames bright are obvious: Resting, taking personal time, exercising, having FUN, and eating well. Not-so-obvious choices include forgiving, doing a job well, empowering those around you, appreciating yourself, allowing others to contribute to you, and speaking your truth.

Start today by grabbing a few logs to toss on your fire. Tend your fire every day, making sure it stays strong. As Ford eloquently states, "We all need the warmth of our own and everyone else's fire. We need to know that each of our fires is well cared for and watched over. Nobody wins if even one of our internal flames goes unattended or, even worse, goes completely out."

I could not agree more.