The Edge

Some days we find ourselves gauging over the precipice of our fears. There are three options to such a situation: 1) leap into the bluff and feel the exhilaration of the free fall, 2) return to safe ground away from the image of the edge, or 3) take a seat at the edge.

The first two options seem more preoccupied with looking down. By simply taking the leap you don't really take in the view from the precipice. You perhaps become more fixated on the bluff and the sensation of falling. In the second option, you just run away from the edge. You may have looked down briefly, but only enough to cause you to seek familiar ground. But neither provides a significant time to take in anything else but the fear.

Imagine sitting at the edge and looking over to see an endless fall into blackness. Then slowly start looking up. The different shades of black will become present as it moves closer to the brightest light source. Looking ahead you will see the vastness of the area surrounding you. Then looking straight up, you will see the endless depth of the sky that reflects the same depth, if not more, of the fall beneath your feet. You will see what inhabits that precipice and how they have adapted to the environment. You will look at the ground next to you and see the ant that effortlessly walks along the edge, neither falling over nor running from it.

In the seated position, you are in no hurry to jump or walk because it would take effort and calculation to do either. In the seated position, you are almost forced to observe. This observation does not have to be just external, it can also be internal. You can see the fear settle in as you ease into a seated position without falling down the cliff. Hearing your heart beat in your ears. Your breath short and heavy. But gradually your heart and breath ease as you gain comfort in the solid ground you inhabit at this edge and the fear dissipates. The realization of the other two options become visible and viable, but neither will be motivated by fear.

"What would life be like taking that plunge into the unknown? Do I really want to jump?"

"What will I be like returning to what I know? Do I really want to return?"

But only the absence of fear will allow those contemplations to exist. When you are ready, you will be able to once again move with confidence in your decision.