Pedal Downhill
I like to coast
effortlessly gliding, wind-in-my-face exhilarating –
I’ll deal with that next hill when I have to.
I like to float
buoyant and restful, meditative and calm –
I’ll get somewhere at another juncture.
And some of this is good: a Sabbath one seventh of the time.
But the rest of the week should be work:
Progress, exertion, stamina, application, improvement, development.
Recently, I’ve been pedaling downhill more often than not.
Interestingly, the momentum generated
translates
most of the way up the next hill
with less energy expended overall
and with lots more dominion, strength and power.
When I coast on my previous spiritual understanding
I am more sluggish in responding
to newly presented challenges.
Floating in my current relationships
I am slower to grasp
fresh opportunities.
As I coast in a familiar creative groove
I lack the stimulus for
surging breakthroughs and bold horizons.
Floating however contentedly
I miss the chance to do something differently
which culminates in uncommon results.
The vitality that’s generated
by pedaling more vigorously when its easy
is almost unimaginable
when you crest that oncoming hill
(no problem!)
and the next hill, and the next hill…
so sprightly, satisfyingly,
and without the least hint of strain.
Pedal downhill
and your potential will burst through, realized
Occasions that were formerly arduous
will be an elated breeze
unfolding on its wings
the bliss of gratitude.
Polly Castor
7/7/11
