Remaining relaxed allows us to calmly confront an issue or person with whom we may disagree, or whom we feel may threaten our values.

Everyone and everything around us is truly an outside influence, but just an influence.

We have free will to choose our reaction to an action.

Meditation for reflection
Sit in a quiet place where you will not be disturbed. Do some rounds of even, regular breathing like this - breathe in 2 counts; breathe out 2 counts; breathe in 2 counts and continue the pattern until you feel calm and relaxed.

Then reflect on these thoughts: We perceive an encounter with fear if we feel we will be influenced to give up our position or attitudes, or coerced into doing what feels uncomfortable to us. That need not happen.

Courage preserves our ideas and integrity. It is our birthright to live our own life. As an adult, we have the right to make our own decisions; lead life as we choose.

Confront a conflict by first being aware of what your body feels like when you are enjoying an activity. You can almost feel the warmth circulating throughout, and you feel in control, master of your actions. Note this carefully now; remembering for later. Practice feeling this way several times by just bringing a happy thought to mind while in a safe setting.

The next time a potential conflict threatens, remember what your body felt like during your practice session and go into that relaxed space, feeling whole, complete, and safe in the house of your body and mind. No one can enter your house without your permission. If you feel uncomfortable with another's influence keep it outside your body and mind. Do not accept it for yourself.

Concluding thoughts
Bravely, while feeling safe inside your body, you can most easily confront those issues holding you back from freely expressing yourself in the world.

"When we learn to be courageous
remaining strong in our convictions
knowing no one can influence us
if we do not wish to be
we expand most fully
experiencing our humanness with humanity."

Article and photo credit Susan Kramer

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For offsite reading

Meditation for Teens and Adults
More than 70 offerings, from guided meditation techniques to on-the-go stress relief and relationship meditations interspersed with verse, and a section of special occasion prayers. 114 pages.

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Meditation for all Kids
Sitting, walking, dance and group circle meditations, along with positive affirmations, verses and benefits of meditation for kids of all ages and abilities in a 100 page book with illustrations.