Here we are in an epic evolutionary learning curve on the planet. As we integrate the news of a pandemic, compare views, get momentarily swallowed by news, feel speechless to inept government, and struggle to stay steady and positive, I believe there is much more.

For example, we know that there are real forces behind pandemics, such as: deforestation, polluted Waters and Air; cruel treatment of animals and humans alike, corrupt governments … it goes on and on. But isn’t it also our own disassociation, complacency, hesitancy, or sense of insignificance? How do we change that?

During this Pause (of quarantine), my wish is that we all take a collective inbreathe, and remember that more is being asked of us than self isolation, or self care during this pandemic. Could it be that it’s letting go of all the subtle comforts and behaviors we’ve held dear that are hurting the planet and hurting each other? Could it be that it’s about reconnecting with the essence of mother Nature; and the essence of human Nature so we can practice reciprocity in new and unexpected ways? Could it be more than feeling temporarily happy that dolphins are coming back, or that the air is temporarily cleaner in China? Many of us already do good work in the world, but can we go further please?

For me, this Pause is asking us for a radical shift of awareness and radical action, big and small, coming from a place of peace and compassion within – without anxiety or fear (while taking all the precautions necessary to be safe and well).

It’s a time to be our greatest selves and create practices that magnify that truth. It’s a time of reckoning with the misuse of powers within our own nature, and redirecting it into the intrinsic radiant powers we are born into (that have not yet been used to their fullest potential); and re-connecting spiritually – knowing that the light of the universe is in our DNA- and that we have more power than we know, that ancients and others have been talking about for such a long time. Isn’t it time we listen and use the powers within?

For me, it’s critically important to understand the power of the Heart, not as a feel good organ, but a frequency and force to contend with, that can change the world (through heartfelt focused meditation, ceremony, prayer, etc) that has scientifically been proven to change outcome. It’s also a time to understand the power of the body to heal and to heal others; and a time for the power of the Mind to re-align to the truth of the heart; and a time to honor the power of the Feminine, as an intrinsic nurturing force that can have significant impact and influence for the future. Let’s not forget who we are: every cell of our bodies carries light and frequency, that can influence and impact conditions within ourselves, our families, and communities, if we just PAUSE and put our magnifying glass onto our hearts, aligned with body and mind, and with each other. We have the power.

Yes, we want to protect others, and stop the suffering. But we can also find the calm in the midst of the storm; and the deeper truth underneath it all. Please, let’s take this time of Pause to heart. When you feel like you can’t take it anymore (isolation can be very hard), go back to deep breathing, meditation and prayers for yourself, your families, and the world, coming from the deep intrinsic power of your Heart. If you are concerned about your loved ones, and the plight of other countries, then create a discipline, not once, but 2 to 3 times a day in momentary Pause, to send healing energy and love to places that need it, certain of its positive outcome. Reach out to those who are living alone. You can also find meditation groups that resonate with you. Make it a practice. Be the critical mass that changes the world.

This self containment and Pause, the way i see it, is not to escape the virus, but to expand and transform ourselves for the good of our beautiful, magnificent planet, including each other, the animals, and all beings. Coming to a halt brings silence and introspection (if you’re not on the computer, texting or watching TV. ). Let’s use technology selectively, and sink into the silence of the Pause, WISELY, for the future of us all.