We must become engaged!

I would like to share some thoughts with the community that has been coming to me in the past few weeks. As a yoga teacher and owner of the YOGA FOR THE PEACEFUL studio in town, I hope that my perception may be considered by the friends and families of Crested Butte.

With all the challenges before us, it occurred to me how beneficial Yoga can be in these times. The purpose of Yoga is to make us strong, flexible, and balanced, as well as to unite with the Divine Spirit inside of each one of us. We all need to be strong at this time and not allow negativity, doubt, and hopelessness to pervade. Becoming flexible enough to adjust the way we currently live, and find new ways to fit our current paradigm are now in order. Now is the time to listen to the voice of Allison Gannet and learn ways to not only "save our snow", but save our precious planet.

Furthermore, how we can support each other in our own community. We can utilize the fruits of our spiritual practices to become centered, balanced, and clear enough to make wise choices and boldly become "the change we wish to see" (Gandhi). Although I am coming from a Yoga perspective, I recognize that all spiritual traditions are available and able to offer some of the same effects. Yoga happens to work from the inside out, and is a totally ecumenical approach open to all religions that inspires us to utilize our healthy bodies and sound minds to transform the current situation into an even better future for all. Aligning with the Divine inside each one of us, we tap into the God force that is unstoppable, infinitely powerful, and can create possibilities greater than we could ever imagine.

We can no longer afford to sit on the sidelines. In my Yogic spiritual community, we are asking people to become ENGAGED. It is time to take our spiritual practices and move in the world with compassion, equanimity, and the dedication to live our values. Mostly, to stay optimistic in these times and know that if we respond with the wisdom and grace that is called for; we are going to change the world for the better. I believe in us, and I know we can do it.

Monica Mesa
YOGA FOR THE PEACEFUL (Formerly Yoga for the People)
P.S. Please Vote FOR OBAMA