The Art of Being

Is there an art to being?

We often meet people who seem to have it all together.  They exude confidence, light, creativity, and happiness. We know in our hearts that they are genuine, because being genuine is at the forefront of their being. It is never hidden. They’ve been places, and they’re busy carving out authentic lives. They seem to just “be” in a way that is appealing, receptive, kind, and true.  They know who they are, and you know who they are too. 

We want some of that, don’t we?  We all want purpose in life, and a sense of fulfilled contentment, don’t we?  If not, why else are we here?  How can we learn to just be in the moment?

The art of being is essentially the art of being happy. It is the art of being alive, honing our innate gifts, searching for our truth, learning, being open to new ideas, and being motivated to make changes in our lives and in ourselves for the better.  We know that our own happiness requires action. Action is about letting some people in (the ones who help to fill us) and letting some people go. Why continue to be attached to the draining people in our lives who consume our time and energy without reciprocation? Much like the act of simply breathing, the “art of being,” is a practiced lifestyle of letting go and letting in.

When we actively walk around on earth in a way that is giving, earnestly heartfelt, and reciprocated, we are actually exercising the art of simply being our true selves. We exude an appreciation of our life in general and those around us can feel it. The art of being is never stagnant, and while there may be passion (feelings, unexpected twists and turns) along the way, there is an absence of rage.

When we live mindfully, ever more aware of what we need and want to maintain our happiness, we can create a degree of peace in our lives, and in the lives of those that surround us. Serenity, therefore, is the ideal gift we can give to ourselves and to other people.  

The art of being starts when we shed light on our dark places, and when we decide to tell the truth about our life story. I am finding that the more light I shed on my own excruciating past experience, the brighter, and more alive I become.  As light (truth) swoops in, darkness (deception) moves out. Perhaps it is falling on deaf ears, and it may very well be that people are tired of hearing my truth in particular, but I know that the more light I shed on my dark places, the more energy I have to forge a clear and steady path to my own freedom, thus creating my own grateful happiness. The more I reveal about myself, the more I seem to have in common with everyone. And that commonality generates a partnership with and support from the world. My light then creates a protective circle of love and acceptance around me as it allows loving people, new opportunities, and fulfilling experiences to permeate.

When I consciously let go of draining people, exasperation, self-sabotage, impatience, judgement, ill-will, and my small, picky grudges, I make room for truthfulness, kindness, honestly shared feelings, and a sense of contentment. Letting go makes room for more light.  

Forgiveness is also part of the human experience, and yet so often we hold on to our negative feelings toward other people and ourselves for way too long. When we accept apologies, we make peace and move on. And we can move on with or without detrimental people because it then becomes our choice.

The art of being comes from simply living, breathing, thinking, loving, and doing inside the core of present moments. What are the beautiful, unique gifts we possess, and how can we actively express them? How can we share them with the world right now? Our purpose in life is to develop and share our gifts.

To discover the art of being within yourself, get quiet, and create space. Let go. Let some light in. Inner reflection and self awareness lead us to change. And when we can change ourselves, we can most certainly “be” the change we wish to see in the world.

“What you seek is seeking you.” ~ Rumi.  The art of being begins when we surrender to that thought alone.

Namaste!