The year 2011 has seen the collapse of financial institutions, and the break down of foreign governments.  Political leaders, among others are being held accountable for their greed and corruption.   The unprecedented ‘Occupy Movement’ has people from around the world standing up to reclaim their right to live in freedom and peace.  Clearly we are undergoing significant change on a global scale.

At the individual level, we just have to reflect on how we thought, felt and responded only a short twelve months ago, and compare that to how we now think, feel, and act.  Chances are you will notice a difference.  Many notice a change in values, preferences, focus, and priorities.

This new way of thinking feeling, acting, and being stems from our desire (more like a drive) to find and create more meaning in our lives – one that inspires, and fulfills a need for greater purpose, beyond the need for acceptance, connection, and belonging.

Through our conscious participation to find greater meaning and purpose, we naturally become more congruent with our inner spirit.  As we become more and more aligned to our true inner essence or spirit, our “sense of self” changes, and as a result our day-to-day life experience gradually becomes more peaceful, fulfilling and easeful.

Here are some ways to become a conscious participant:

• Become non-judgmental – of yourself and others
• Yield rather than resist
• Take responsibility for your thoughts and feelings (eg. do not blame others)
• Accept criticism and look for the lesson and possibility of truth in it
• Apply the W.A.I.T. principle before speaking:  ask yourself “why am I talking?” (For what purpose, for whose benefit, etc.?)

Through conscious participation we can observe and monitor our behaviours, actions, and thoughts in order to usher in and embrace the changes ahead in 2012.

Wishing you courage, resilience, and grace for the coming year!