36. Where Does It Land?

As I listened to the rain on a still day, it occurred to me that the sound emanates from where the drops hit a surface. The noise of rain changes according to whether it gets absorbed into the earth or hits a window, pavement or a drain. Isn’t it interesting that the difference becomes apparent by where the rain lands rather than the sound of the rain itself? In this case, the receiving surface is of equal importance.

I often marvel at the differences of my own reactions to certain remarks or suggestions depending on how I am feeling at the time and who it is coming from! Could this be that like the rain; the perception or sound changes according to where it is absorbed in my body? For example, when I am in a logical, factual state of mind, the remark may seem like an observation. If I am in an emotional state of irritation or anger, then the remark may feel like a criticism. It all depends on which ground the words land on. This appears as if we have no control over our reaction. Though this thought is uncomfortable, it is often my reality!

Being aware of the space we occupy in our body, in order to remain in control of our responses, becomes crucial. A combined space of heart and mind where logic, emotions and instinct are in sync, is an ideal place to live in. From this viewpoint, we, the receiver of any words or remarks, have the control of what sound we hear and how it is interpreted. This in turn influences our behaviour. When we encounter ideas and thoughts that are elevating, they will only make an impact depending on the soil/ground it lands on. Like the rain, it may be absorbed and bear fruit, or flow down the drain…