I was going on vacation last October and when I put my suitcase on the scale, the agent told me I was one pound over the “free” weight. He asked if I wanted to pay the extra fee or take something out of my bag. Well, that was a no-brainer. I took one thing out of my suitcase, and it sailed through to the plane!
We got to the gym and people ask how much weight can you lift? This is supposed to be, for men, a sign of virility, in the competition for alpha male status. It’s as if the more weight you can lift, the better human you will be, so not so!
This brings us to an important distinction. When we go on a trip or the gym, we’re talking about physical weight. What happens when we talk about emotional/spiritual weight? Have you ever heard the phrase, “It weights heavy on my mind?
The phrase is an indication of the gravity of a situation. There are many times in my work with those facing chronic or life-threatening illness when the phrase is uttered. Often it comes when I ask the person, “Is there anything you want to say or ask you don’t feel you can approach with others?” This question and its response is the equivalent to putting the suitcase on the scale at the airport. The huge difference is there is no weight limit, just unconditional acceptance.
Beliefs and concerns don’t have physical weight and yet they take up a lot of space and can feel burdensome. They can feel like the rock Sisyphus had to roll up the hill every day, only to be defeated and have to start again the next day. When facing health challenges, these types of question prevail. We can have a good attitude, be empowered to ask good questions, and go through all the necessary treatments, but at the end of the day, when the world is quiet, we lay our heads down not always because we’re tired, but the weight of the situation is too heavy.
Know when to share your heavy times. Find a person or people who will help shoulder the load when it gets too heavy. Understand the importance of emotional and spiritual rest.
If you’d like to see art related to living a balanced and soulful life follow me on
Instagram/Threads: @drfiber
For commentary on the art go to my blog: www.manofthecloth.wordpress.com
Pilgrim Pathway 
Leave a comment