Power to Withdraw…

Hi everyone,

I just love how life has a way of working itself out, if we just allow it to be. Being in Melbourne this fortnight – caring for my mother – I had to ask my partner over the phone to draw a Power. I asked him to simply swirl his hand around the bowl till I said stop – the Power he drew is one that I’m sure we can all practice and use more.

This fortnight’s Power is such a beautiful gentle power and I for one, can definitely use it while interacting with my family. Although we all love each other, our growing years was one of suppressing emotions and ‘keeping up appearances’ – those who came to ‘4 Faces of Woman’ would recognise this face as the ‘Traditional Face’ – one of conforming and being ‘the good girl/boy’. Employing this Power has already stopped me from reacting in several situations. Instead of contributing to any more stress by adding my old insecurities that were beginning to surface, I applied my brake and stepped back. I became the observer for just a few moments before responding in a calmer manner. This practical strategy allows everyone an opportunity to change themselves – the choice is ours – to benefit, or not.

Our 16th Power is the 2nd Jewel – Power to Withdraw – page 29….

‘This power is to go inside,
it’s not meant for me to run and hide.
But to re-centre so my mind is clear,
to see through my eyes without any fear.
It conserves my energy as I recharge,
to harmonise with the world at large.’

** The ability to step back and become the observer – to observe situations, observe my own attitude and observe my own thoughts – before I take action. Withdrawing regularly from my surroundings, from my senses and from my own thoughts is a powerful practical action. When I regularly ʻwithdrawʼ I am able to conserve and recharge my energy.

** I am the tortoise… I come out to play my role (take action with my body) then withdraw, rest and recharge in the safety of my shell (withdraw into a conscious, silent state of the soul).

** Supporting Virtues: Silence, Detachment, Introversion, Economical, Centred, Practical

Tips:
— The Tortoise always wins the race – take small deliberate steps towards your
destination – unlike the rabbit who races, schemes and takes shortcuts
— Regular introversion reconnects your mind, body and soul – renewing your power Experiment to see what other powers will enhance ‘Withdrawing’.

Questions to churn:
1. Do I give-in to reactions rather than exercise my Power to Withdraw? Why?
2. Do I give myself permission to ‘withdraw’?
3. How can I make this power firm in my life?

The more I allow myself to ‘withdraw’ (lovingly detached as opposed to cutting myself off) the more I am able to immerse myself into any relationship or interaction, without the risk of losing or compromising my own value. When practiced correctly, this amazing power can transform any potentially heated situation, encouraging cooperation and calm. Withdrawing gives me the ability to turn any negative, unwanted reactions into powerful responses – sparing myself and others from unnecessary anguish and distress. Another Power that turns impossible into possible – one definitely worth cultivating and refining – to have at the ready in my toolbelt of life 🙂

Lots of love Annemarie xx