in praise of longing

In the practice of somatics there is a saying, “life moves towards life.”

How I interpret this is, what supports your vitality naturally flows towards what affirms it.

I like to imagine this intelligence moving me like a river. It will guide me toward my thriving if I stop trying to control it and instead let myself be carried. Easier said then done, I know.

This river of life moves through all of us. It communicates through the longings of our heart.

The heart connects us with our vulnerability. It is the location where we feel our needs for intimacy, connection and belonging. Societally, this kind of openness is often regarded as an indication of weakness.

But there is another truth as well, from the flower with petals curled back to the frog’s full-throated mating call, our world is created through longing. Our vulnerability is our power.

What your heart longs for only you know. It could be creation that inspires. It could be love itself. Some part of you — even if it is buried under layers of doubt, holds curiosity around a possibility. It may be inconvenient. It may be scary. It may be impractical, and yet, that pulsing of what if will not be dissuaded.

When we allow ourselves to be oriented by the power of our yearnings, we are guided towards a richer life. Like a river making its way to the sea, we are pulled toward expansion.

Don't be afraid.

With a full heart,

Kelsey