The Third Characteristic of a Successful Life

Karma yoga views characteristics and qualities as ways to progress towards soulful growth and self-realization. (First, be calm, and second, self-disciplined) The third characteristic is the ability to withdraw and reflect. To withdraw means to remove oneself from a situation or to disengage from one's surroundings, both physically and mentally. Reflecting involves introspection and self-examination. It means reflecting upon one's thoughts, words, and actions to gain insight and understanding. In yoga, we call this sense withdrawal, which means turning inward to quiet the mind, creating a sense of inner calmness, and then making positive changes in our lives. Withdrawal and reflection allow us to get in touch with our feelings. Karma reminds us that one of the obstacles to a peaceful, successful, and happy life is blocking our feelings. When we block our feelings, we block our self-awareness. Let's work on withdrawal and self-reflection. END: Withdrawing and reflecting means controlling the senses. The senses are like a mirror. By themselves, they are pure and innocent. Turn them outward, and they reflect on the turbulent and chaotic world. Turn them inward, and the mirror reflects our state of being. The world is a battlefield. Looking outside, we must be prepared to fight against deceit, greed, anger, and pride. When we withdraw, reflect, and look inside, the battles of life will also challenge us, but if we practice calmness with self-discipline and inner reflection, we can find quietude, peace, and happiness. Look inward, withdraw, reflect, and create a state of being that reflects your ability to be calm and disciplined, and you will build strong and worthy characteristics. EGO: Flip your palms up and extend out the index fingers, the ego symbol. The ego easily deludes itself by comparing itself to others while believing it has control over itself, even while putting in minimal effort. But at any minute, there can be a slip-up, the mind can lose control, and the ego will find itself on the battlefield of life fighting for survival. Pull your fingers in and place your thumbs on top, take a breath, and surrender to the soul. The soul knows how to withdraw and reflect. Reflect upon your pure state of being, it's like a mirror turned inward, reminding us that if we find and cultivate the quality of peace within, we will find peace wherever we go. Good characteristics to have are calmness, self-discipline, and self-reflection. Namaste ~ may you walk the path of life with health, happiness, and peace. Doctor Lynn