Article June 30, 2008 Issue

ARE 'DON'T DO'S' HOLDING YOU BACK?

BY LYNN JACKSON

Recently , I've noticed that many people I've talked with are suffering from what I call the "don't do's." These are usually things the individuals used to do when they were more agile, flexible, versatile, athletic, or just plain younger. And sometimes they're things they've always been afraid to do, like ski or surf or, in my case, drive on extreme mountain roads.

It may look as if we all share a similar prospect: birth, growth, maturity—occasioned by various fears—and an inevitable wearing on of years and out of energy. But at times we find people who just don't buy into that scenario. Maybe you know someone like that—a parent, friend, or neighbor. They haven't given in to the "don't do's." They haven't stopped doing what they've always loved to do, in some way or another. And they don't let fear keep them from doing new things. In many cases they seek out new and exciting opportunities to interact and learn more. Who wouldn't want this perpetual vivacity and love of life? But is it possible for all of us?

The answer is yes! Agility, flexibility, fearlessness, and youth are qualities of thought that are an irresistible part of our spiritual nature—the only nature we possess. And it's possible to experience them right now, in fact.