The whole idea of sacrifice brings up some very unpleasant feelings! We, unfortunately, misunderstand the real purpose of it, and what it’s intended to provide for us in our lives. There is a tendency for us to view sacrifice as having to give something up, and we therefore become unwilling, because we believe we cannot live and function in the same way without the many things we think are important. What we value, then, becomes part of who we are, and we mistakenly identify ourselves with not only the physical or material aspects of life, but our entire belief system, or what we believe to be necessary within our reality. It is understandable we want a sense of permanence, but if we believe we are currently everything we could ever be, change becomes impossible.
If we take a step back, and view sacrifice as an ongoing process in our lives, we can understand it to be a beneficial part of our overall development as a human being. Honestly, sacrifice is not about having something taken from us, it is an opportunity to become a better self. If we accept the fact that we are constantly growing, that there is always something more to learn, then we see sacrifice as the letting go of that which is unnecessary. In other words, when we refuse to understand that we have outgrown our beliefs, and what we feel we need, we become limited by them. We cannot grow any longer or see what we need to learn to become the better self we seek. Now, we have reached a point where change becomes necessary, and the act of sacrifice becomes the impetus to create what we currently need.
Growth, change, and the vehicle of sacrifice that is required, create a forward movement. As painful as it can be to let go of something, we can be motivated by understanding it will release us from the unpleasant feeling of being stuck in the past. You see, no matter how hard we try, we cannot stay in the same place in our minds forever. We are always impelled to move forward. If we decide to remain in the same place, because we believe it is the best place, we bring in the unwanted anxiety, depression, and a continued experience of an uncomfortable and unfulfilled life. The reality is that we all know something must give in order for the doorway of opportunity to present itself again. This opportunity is always to attain the freedom we once had. To be free of pain is to be free of what is limiting our greater expression. My friends, we wish to feel good again, and have our lives be in good working order, as it is intended to be. Our fear and apprehension of engaging with the sacrificial process in a joyful way happens for two reasons. First, if we were to let go of something we feel we need, we unfortunately cannot “see” the totality of what will replace it. The good news is that we can “feel” something better is available. This subtle knowingness provides the willingness to do whatever it takes. Second, if we continue to believe that letting go is painful and to be avoided, our necessary growth becomes “all about losing”. The reality is that nothing is ever lost, only something gained. This must be our understanding if we are to move forward. The true nature of sacrifice, then, is letting go of the self we once knew. All we really have to do is recognize that something is no longer working, and this something, whatever it is, is creating the real pain and suffering we wish to free ourselves from.
As we consider the necessity of sacrifice, many of us are unaware of the larger benefits it can provide. We unfortunately only see our own struggle and may have difficulty finding a proper motivation. If we are in this thing called life together, then we must understand that whatever we are able to do at an individual level affects the greater whole of which we’re a part. Whatever we do to effect change in our lives opens the door wider for everyone else to do the same. As one of us moves forward, we all move forward. In this way, we love without knowing we love!
Take a look at the excesses in every part of your life. A simple life is a comfortable and peaceful life.
Let go of the unnecessary “plastic objects” all around you and within you. These include the physical, emotional and mental. The material aspects of living are not what they appear to be.
Sacrifice the false belief that you have found the best way, for such a way does not exist. The best way benefits all.
Last, but not least, seek the wisdom of the higher self, for a better version of yourself is always available.
In my light, all shall be lifted up! The World Teacher expressing what we will also do.
All my love and support, be well