Recently I published an article about the human-nature connection. In that article I covered three ways in which we humans are like nature: Our Desire To Communicate, Our Vulnerability, and Our Inner Purity.

I wanted to go further with this topic because I believe it is so important. I honestly believe the more we observe the ways of nature and allow ourselves the time to get lost in her mystery, the more peace and happiness will show up in our lives.

This way of thinking may sound a little pollyanaish, and I own that. I can be a real cornball at times. But, again, I’m okay with all that. I look at it this way - I’m sacrificing a little of that sexy edginess for a softness that allows unseen forces to penetrate…

With that in mind I will concentrate this article on the contemplation of a single thought, and how we humans are like nature: We Change.

We all (and the universe as a whole) started as mere thoughts in the creator’s mind. Unless you are a believer in the Big Bang Theory, and adhere to the philosophy that intense gravitational pressure built up to such a degree that matter exploded….actually there really was no “explosion”, but an expansion. It started a tiny hot ball, cooled, expanded, cooled expanded, etc, etc. It continues to expand (change) in this way billions of years later.

So, whether you believe we were thought into existence or appeared through some scientific theory, I believe you would find it difficult to deny that we change. Change is the universal constant-it really is the only thing we can count on.

In the Tao philosophy, all change in the universe is explained by the dynamic workings of yin and yang. In this ancient Chinese way of thinking, all things in the universe (including us humans) are interconnected and greatly affect each other:

1. The movement of the stars - the shifting of your cellular bodies
2. The flowing of the rivers- the current of your blood
3. The natural growth of trees-the stretching of our bones, hair, nails, etc.
4. A plant’s decline with neglect-the early demise of our health due to self-imposed stress
5. The shifting of clouds-our changing moods

The yin and yang part of this philosophy are the opposites or contrast or two ends of the spectrum:

1. male-female
2. light-dark
3. yes-no
4. up-down
5. good-bad

Just as the Tao believe there is interconnectedness within all things, they also believe there is no separation from the opposing pairs listed above. The simple act of breathing (inhaling and exhaling) is another example - without one you cannot have the other. Together, these two things create harmony. In nature, the magnificent shorelines are created from the ebb and flow of water. Movement and change are occurring simultaneously-naturally.

If circumstances were taken separately, chaos would reign-there would be no balance or harmony-and our bodies and our universe would falter. This can happen when we lose touch with the connection we have with nature. The change may not be as drastic as when you stop breathing - but change is inevitable. The basic law of the universe which says “for every action, there is a reaction” cannot be denied - ignorance does not keep it from operating.

A feeling of separateness creates doubt and worry. Stress grows in our minds and affects our bodies. Our cells react, and stop cooperating in the natural way they are accustomed; they become malformed and then, in this new form, begin to grow and expand in the same way the it did in the beginning. Once the current starts flowing in one negative direction, and in this one direction only, it becomes more difficult to change the momentum. Like a tidal wave, created from the stresses of the universe, destruction is unavoidable.

But, when the water clears, it presents a new opportunity - just as a moment of clarity creates a chance to change your thoughts. When the break occurs, try expressing gratitude. Breathe.

It is much easier to be grateful when you contemplate on our connection to the universe. This bond means that the power that created this world is the same infinite power that is a part of you-and supports you. The universe wants you to succeed!

I believe the universal life force energy (chi) works through us so that we can create something out of nothing. Whether it is a man taking a bunch of separate parts and creating a powerful engine for an automobile or a musician creating an intoxicating melody from sounds translated from his…(soul?)- there is something for each one of us.

Nature has a way of accepting these gifts without question, and without doubt or worry. She reacts when we treat her with lack of appreciation-but, left alone she flourishes. If we were able to let ourselves alone (and dispense with all the worry!), and accept the support of the universe maybe the change we create will help the inevitable ups and downs of life easier to deal with.

These cycles of life are the impetus for beautiful creation. Without sorrow of loss, how would one write a poignant love story. And without fall there would be no spring. When change happens whisper a silent “thank you”, adopt a contemplative nature, and smile knowingly-the universe has your back.

Copyright 2007 / Avenstar Enterprises, Inc. / Zen Fireflies

Kim McGinnis is a freelance writer and entrepreneur. Her website offers inspirational items to create a sense of serenity in your home (inside and out) visit Kim at her beautiful website, …a zen gift http://www.AZenGift.com …a zen gift offers free shipping on many products and most orders come with a free night magic CD.

This unique site promotes peace of mind and simplicity. Beautiful and hard-to-find meditation & yoga supplies are offered as well. Natural health remedies can also be found here! If you seek tranquility & health and love to surround yourself with beauty, feel free to visit: http://www.AZenGift.com

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