A Very Important Question

The only questions that really matter are the ones you ask yourself.-Ursula Le Guin



One of the most elegant things I read this past week was contained in just one sentence. Actually a question:How do you want to feel right now?

Author Ken Winston Caine suggests that you ask this in the first person, especially when feeling frustrated or overwhelmed. How would I like to feel right now? Be absolutely honest with yourself. Then, feel that way.

It gets easier with practice. Once you've chosen the way you want to feel, your words and actions will be attuned to your emotions. You'll be acting rather than reacting.

It brings to mind Ben Hur (okay, Charlton Heston) in command of his chariot. When we're not in control of the horses (senses) and the reins (mind) flap and flail about, it's the charioteer (intelligence) who must take control of the reins, the horses and the chariot (the physical body).

The beauty of Mr. Caine's question is that you don't have to be so spiritually athletic. Just ask, How do I want to feel right now?


A magical question that changes EVERYTHING, by Ken Winston Caine.

Who's Driving Your Chariot? A Question for Yoga Meditation Practitioners from SwamiJ.com.

Photo:DoBeRaGi