The Tandem-Duct Aerial Demonstrator
(not me)
How do we start something new? How do we begin?
We get a feeling, an idea, a nudge that says, “Maybe I can do that.” But so often, conditioning kicks in or a distraction takes our focus away long enough for that ‘what if’ to end up on the back burner.
That’s the way I’m approaching this article. I have been working on this blog for a while and have been nudged and encouraged by others to write and contribute. It’s time to bypass conditioning and distractions, and start.
As we begin thinking about how to do our part to build a world that works for everyone, many are wondering, “Where do I begin?” There are so many things that need to be done in our world. If we don’t already have a specific technology to bring to the world or haven’t figured out our unique gift that we can contribute, it can be overwhelming to find what part of the dart board to aim for. So how about starting by picking up a dart and throwing it somewhere? Anywhere. Start.
So, here I am starting this article, not knowing where it will lead, yet the first word leads to the next, and the next sentence pours after the previous one. Now, it’s got some teeth, some bite, and I’m getting the picture that it will lead to something complete.
It’s a good metaphor for how to create anew with the potential of energy that is around us now. The shackles are coming off and humanity is ready to breath free again, and we’re in a position with our awakened state to apply ourselves toward making the world work.
But where does one start? May I suggest that it is by starting. Something. Anything. What is your talent, your desire, your passion? What is your biggest idea? What is your smallest idea? What can you do right now to begin fleshing out an idea and getting it out of your mind and heart, and into some tangibility?
Ok, now doubt is creeping into my mind. Who am I to dream big, to see myself as a writer, or one of those pay it forward types. I’m reminded of a classic quote from Marianne Williamson. I’m even hesitant to add it, thinking it might have been used many times in previous articles, but I’m starting to realize that it doesn’t matter.
Starting, then fleshing out what’s in my heart and mind is what’s important. Not worrying that I’m not unique or that I’m a hack. That is old conditioning, and I’m putting it aside.
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?’
“Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world.
“There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone.
“And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” – Marianne Williamson
So as I stumble through writing this article, I ask of you, what can you risk stumbling through to get something started? What idea can you plow through and flesh out and turn into a next step?
You might find, as I am now, that doubt and fear are beckoning in your mind. But as you continue to plod along, you start to realize that those doubts are now withering on the sideline, unable to effect you.
To me it feels like taking off the training wheels and feeling the exhilaration of riding a bike solo for the first time. Do I care at this point if the article isn’t good enough to post? No. I’ll risk skinning my knee. Starting to ride my own bike enables me to join others in the joy of feeling the wind in my hair while going someplace. To the next level.
Should I stop and go back and read what I’ve written so far? Why? To see if it’s good enough? To see if I can tweek it so I sound better? No, I want to see what comes out next. I wouldn’t stop my bike and analyze the first 10 minutes of riding without training wheels. I’m too curious to see where the front wheel of the bike will go next!
When I’ve exhausted myself, I may think back and consider what I could have done differently, but not for the sake of criticizing myself or letting old conditioning run rampant. I’d do it to see how I can do it better on the next trip. And because I remember the joy and thrill of plowing through something new, despite my vulnerability, I’ll be more confident and excited to start the next thing.
Wow, starting is fun. I’m glad I sat down to write this short article. No need for a dramatic ending, the goal was just to start.
What else can I start?
What can you start?
Paul, “Start ~ Removing the Training Wheels,” Nov. 25, 2016, at https://goldenageofgaia.com/?p=284399