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WISDOM OF THE WEEK

Inner traffic control

Published:Sunday | November 19, 2023 | 12:10 AM

We all know the traffic signals and their importance on the road and how being a little careless in following the signals may bring serious consequences. Following signals makes driving convenient and smooth for everyone. In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we all are navigating through the complex highways of our minds. Just like the roads we travel, our inner landscape is filled with a constant flow of thoughts, each vying for attention and precedence. Much like the traffic signals that govern our external roads, our mental highways also need traffic management to ensure smooth rides every day.

Our mind is like a bustling intersection, where thoughts from various aspects of life converge and intersect. The past, present, and future; work, family, and self; considerations of community, country, and the globe, all come together on the road of the mind. Without proper traffic signals, this convergence leads to collisions, resulting in the emotional wreckage of anxiety, stress, anger, hurt, etc. Do we notice our inner accidents and damage every day?

TRAFFIC LIGHTS

Let’s understand how traffic lights guide us through the intricate network of our thoughts.

Green – When we rest well at night, wake up fresh, and spend some quality time with ourselves, it indicates that our mental battery is charged, and we are good to go. A green signal is when we are emotionally stable and adequately prepared to tackle tasks and challenges. It is a state of mental equilibrium, peace, happiness, and inner harmony to proceed with confidence to accomplish goals.

Yellow – As the day passes, we face situations, and our energy index lowers, we start losing calm and patience, the inner light has now turned yellow, and it signals caution. Much like a yellow traffic signal advises us to slow down, our inner state suggests that we need to bring our mental speed under control. It is time to slow down, to step back to prevent collisions. It is a moment to assess the surroundings and adjust our mental velocity to navigate safely.

Red – It is a state when positivity, peace, and joy are about to go nil. It is a call to halt. Ignoring the last warning to control the speed and pause results in arguments, misunderstandings, judgements, hurt, blaming, anger, and so on. Whether a crucial or casual task, the signal asks you to stop, breathe, regain equilibrium, and let the light turn green.

In our daily lives, these inner signals pave the way for a more serene and joyful day. By understanding the need to stop, control speed, and embrace readiness, we can navigate complex situations with grace and ensure smoother journeys for ourselves and those around us. It is now time to be good drivers.

Courtesy: Rajyoga Meditation Center, Kingston (meditation courses and counselling are offered free of charge). Email: kingston@jm.brahmakumaris.org. Or follow on Instagram: rajyoga_meditation_jamaica