An external symbol of an internal shift

“Will you get a certificate, Mama?”

I’m grateful – most days – that my kiddo is interested in what I do and how I spend my time. My days and my work are specific enough to describe. Last week, however, I was flummoxed, unsure how to explain the day I was about to spend in ritual and reflection to become a Reiki Master practitioner.

Until recently, I hadn’t considered pursuing this designation, equating Master with accomplishment, achieving an advanced level of skill and know-how.  Maybe someday, I’d think, and let it go. Wise words from one of my teachers shifted my thinking: It’s a regrettable title for that reason. The Reiki Master initiation is a beginning, not an ending.

So I took a step forward toward my own path of healing and strengthening so I can better do my work in the world.  On Tuesday, May 9 I spent a beautiful and rare day with my teachers at Pioneer Valley Reiki.

Rare, because the day centered on me.

After which I cooked dinner and sat through martial arts before falling asleep with my kiddo at his bedtime.

“What has changed?” a friend and colleague asked. Nothing. And everything. As another teacher reminds, all of the tools I have are already present. All of my work – internal and external – isn’t going away.  Yoga and Reiki and meditation and outside time and writing are tools to get my energy moving. To remove the barriers.  To get unstuck so energy and insight and inspiration and love can flow through me.

“Yes honey, I will.” Wednesday morning, I did take time to hang my certificate, offering gratitude for all I’ve been given and all I am able to give.