Tara Brach

We have that vulnerability like the seagull in the puddle.

And we also have this longing for freedom, this capacity to fly and be free.

So I'm ending with this story because it's really natural for each of us to become identified as a victim of circumstance.

endangered by larger forces, the cruelty in our world, loss and illness, the pain when those close to us wound or reject us, the workings of our own mind.

It's just natural.

It's this vulnerability that's intrinsic to being human.

And we have wings.

Mindfulness, we have that mindful compassion awareness that can

reveal the larger reality of who we are, reveal who we are beyond that victim identity, and release soul force, you know, the love, the creativity, the power of our true nature.

So we'll do a closing reflection.

This is on awakening from victim consciousness and it's intended to touch into the very roots of this identity.

And of course it's a practice to please try on your own when you have enough time because it can take some time or practice with someone who you trust.

taking some moments to become still and to let the attention turn inward.

Take a few full breaths.

and bring to mind a situation where you regularly feel caught in victim consciousness.

You might choose something relational.

Perhaps it's the way someone treats you, the behavior of a partner or friend, conflict.

And if nothing comes to mind, in that realm might be a political or societal situation of injustice or violation.

So choose something real but not the most overwhelming situation in your life.

It will serve you more in practicing this to start with something that's not overwhelming.