Transformation # 9 – March 28, 2016 – Day Five – I like this part of the exercise for today: “So one thing you can do is draw a picture of what the ego is like, It may be an angry lion or a dark cloud or a raging fire or a big mess. Then on another paper draw the opposite such as a sunny day, a warm candle, an orderly area. Look at the two pictures together and then just set the ego one aside so you don’t see it anymore. Repeat it two or three times.”

I’ve been thinking about how a lighted candle brings illumination, how it is the opposite of a volcanic fire. It’s a really meaningful image.

Yesterday I went to bed thinking about 9 times that I experienced something really wonderful. Images of nature trails always come to mind when I ask myself this question. But now I can also say I like remembering really peaceful and exhilarating visits to coffee shops. Here are 7 others that come to mind:

• Playing cards with my daughter
• Walking in the rain
• Publishing a well-written article
• Giving a presentation to a large group of people
• Knitting a scarf and giving it away

When I first did this exercise from the 19-Day Transformation program years ago, I worked with the ego-issue of “mess” and I remember how painful it was, actually.

Today, I am reflecting on the image of a raging fire, from a volcano specifically, and how being like a lighted candle keeps me connected to my own inner sense of calm even if others around me want to get volcano-ish.

I learned from a dream last night that I have an issue around working on what I want and then following through with the presentation of it. I become afraid of people’s anger and give up.

If, instead of feeling anger or feeling afraid of the anger, I follow through and do so as a lighted candle then that will be progress.

That is what I am working on today.

“So far as ye are able, ignite a candle of love in every meeting, and with tenderness rejoice and cheer ye every heart.”   Abdu’l Baha