Final thoughts

Ah, to finish a book...

I feel great. I feel as though I just spoke with someone about all of the things that I have been feeling about myself for the last 29 years. So, needless to say, I really enjoyed reading "A New Earth." I felt like the book inspired me to look deep within myself. I also felt like the book inspired me to be a better person.

Over the last few years, I've been working with young children in a variety of environments. I worked at a daycare, as a nanny, in public schools, in private schools, etc. But, I could never go through a day without being totally and completely irritated. I would just end up being so frustrated with the children that I didn't even want to return the next day. I had no idea why or how their behavior could make me feel the way that I did. I can even remember driving home in tears. However, while I was reading, "A New Earth" I realized that it's all about me. I had no idea that I was carrying and fueling so much pain-body. Granted, I have no idea where all of my pain-body derives from, but I am sure that it is present.

I was guest teaching in a 4th grade classroom after I read and learned about pain-body. Unfortunately, there were numerous staff members who informed me of the "bad" behavior that I was going to encounter throughout my day. But, I didn't have any issues or behavior problems. I would not let that negative energy into me or into that classroom. I was there for two days and those two days were the best teaching experiences that I've ever had. When I left, I felt happy. I wasn't happy that I was leaving, but I was happy that I was able to teach the children something valuable. Most importantly, I was able to show those students who I really am...

At the end of the novel, Tolle writes, "This, too, will pass," which I found to be so interesting. Now, if someone had said those words to me right after Matt passed away, I would have thought that the person didn't understand the pain that occurs when someone you love passes away, but it makes sense to me now. Although I am very sad that Matt passed away, the initial sadness and shock has faded. All of the worries that I felt about passing tests, ex-boyfriends, and past experiences have passed. In some cases, I can't believe how much time and energy that I spent worrying about things that I couldn't change. I can't bring Matt back, I can't become a ballerina, I can't change the past. It is what it is. The past is the past.

If I could choose one thing that I really learned from reading "A New Earth" I would say that I learned to be aware of this moment. Right now. I learned to appreciate and become aware of my Presence... I am.

Thanks for participating. I will decide on a new book next week. Stay tuned.

~Erika