Most of us think of “resilience” as something akin to perseverance, grit, or tenacity--the ability to “bounce back” after challenging times. And while none of these definitions are inaccurate, today I invite you to expand your conceptualization of resiliency by reflecting on an unlikely metaphor: the humble camel.
Inspired by a course I am currently taking (“The Dream Arc”), I felt drawn to explore the ways I might widen my “Resilient Zone” by contemplating the wisdom of the camel. So how, exactly, does this creature connect to resilience?
The camel reminds us that resilience is more than continuously pushing forward, armed with nothing but our own dogged determination. Instead, the camel teaches us that resilience is cultivated by drawing on a deep Reservoir of Self-Love. Imagine that!
For me, this was a novel concept--connecting resilience to self-love? The two seemed like disparate entities! (“You have to WORK HARD to be resilient!” a part of me protested). Allowing oneself to rest at the oasis and to fill up the reservoir with whatever is needed to continue the journey? (“This couldn’t possibly work!” the voice insisted).
But I have to tell you, the more I’ve been working with the symbol of the camel, the more I see how the concepts of resilience and self-love are intimately intertwined. As I allow myself to pause, drink from the oasis of self-love, and rest for a bit on my journey, I find that my capacity for the journey itself expands. I become more resilient!
So what about you? Are you feeling a bit weary from your travels and in need of a refreshing pause at the oasis? If so, I invite you to reflect on the wisdom of the camel. What are some of the ways you can tap into your own inner reservoir of self-love? You may be amazed at how you can renew and restore your spirit--simply by being open to receiving and giving yourself permission.
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