KEEPIN IT FRANK OCEAN
by Aaron MIlton
If one were to watch the news, it could be assumed the world is coming to an end. As of April 14th, New York State deaths have surpassed 10,000. Lives are being lost and many of us have had to say goodbye to loved ones much sooner than we could have ever expected. In situations where we may not have lost a person, many of us have lost job opportunities and wages, and have been limited from engaging in many of our usual means of living so that we can ensure the safety of ourselves and the safety of others. With the many adjustments that have had to be made in these times, the subsequent consequence has been suffering in many forms.
Buddhism often discusses suffering and how it permeates all parts of our lives. Our continued desire for more and for permanence causes us pain that we can too easily linger in if we are not aware of the destructive and insidiously seductive nature of negativity. However inherent suffering can be to life, acknowledging its presence does not mean we have to allow ourselves to succumb to it.
When feeling discomfited, it can be difficult to again find footing that gives us the peace of mind we seek. So what can we do to steady ourselves and move with purpose during this time of crisis?
Return to the Breath.
In Buddhism, this is called anapansati, meaning “mindfulness of breathing.” In short, this refers to breathing meditation and finding calm in the midst of any situation that is occurring.
The breath is our purpose, our energy, our life force. We have been blessed with another moment of to exist in this realm, a blessing some beings in these very difficult times did not receive. As we experience anxiety, discomfort, confusion, sadness, boredom, longing, or any variation of suffering, it’s helpful to take our attention to our breathing. Is it short and ragged, a sign and enforcer of anxiety?
If you were to imagine your breathing as a flowing river, we are to reach into that river and grab one drop. This droplet is one breath; one iota of power we all have to engage with the wayward current that is Life.
We cannot control the flow but we can direct our engagement and our experience. Are we trapped in our homes or has life given us the gift of suspending time for in depth reflection? Are we being traumatized by this virus or are we receiving in vivo education on the importance of each relationship to people, roles, tangibles, and otherwise?
Use the breath as a point to recenter and as a reminder to yourself that you are present and have the ability to find the resolve you desire to live a joyous life. As many losses, wars, famines, diseases, and communal pains have visited and left before, what we are experiencing with COVID-19 will as well. As difficult as “going with the flow” can be, in being aware of our thoughts and intentions we can wade the the hazardous currents.