In India, the birthplace of yoga, travelers on narrow, forested roads often find themselves face-to-face with elephants, particularly under the cover of night. In such moments, drivers—whether navigating cars, auto rickshaws, or buses—know to stop and maintain a respectful distance. This mindful pause prevents startling the majestic creature, which could provoke a charge. Patience becomes a virtue for both drivers and passengers, who, in the dim light, watch the gentle movement of the elephant's rear as it moves slowly and deliberately back into the embrace of the forest.
Himalayan yoga teacher and retreat leader Silvia Baratta recounted waiting behind one such elephant while living in India. Observing its rear end blocking the road, she envisioned what this mighty creature might be doing with its trunk. She imagined the sweeping motions and the rhythmic sway of the elephant's trunk, considering whether it could be removing debris. In that moment, a profound realization dawned upon her: “The same elephant that blocks the road clears the path.” The article that follows reflects this authors personal interpretation of the wisdom behind her thought provoking insight.
by Jenny May
The very mind that creates obstacles on our journey toward Self-awareness is also the mind that possesses the power to sweep away these barriers, guiding us gently toward enlightenment and the clearing of our path. Every challenge we face can serve as a doorway to a deeper understanding of the Self.
Often, we impose conditions on ourselves, our relationships, and our circumstances, expressing our discontent with the present moment. We tell ourselves, “If only my partner would change, I would be happy,” or “If only the sun would shine, my heart would be lighter. Our attachments to comfort, combined with our habitual mind patterns of seeking pleasure and avoiding pain, lies at the root of our suffering. While it is natural to resist discomfort, the expectations we place upon ourselves and others inevitably lead to disappointment and pain. The wisdom of ancient texts teaches us that the most profound course of action is to allow things to be as they are—to embrace “what is.” But how do we cultivate this acceptance, especially when circumstances seem unfavorable?
One of the ways that the yoga teachings illuminate the path to true happiness is through the practice of relinquishing our preferences. We learn to practice refraining from labeling experiences as good or bad, right or wrong, and recognize that things simply “are what they are.” As we engage in meditation and nurture a friendship with our mind, we gradually learn to adopt a “let it be” attitude. After even a few short minutes of focused attention on our breath, we discover a sense of peace and centering within. This tranquility empowers us to move forward with greater compassion and love. With continued meditation practice, we cultivate a deeper sense of inner awareness, and in doing so, we contribute to the collective field of peace that our world so desperately needs.
Regardless of who we are, what we believe, or where we find ourselves on the path toward Self-consciousness, we can take solace in the truth that the power to clear our path lies within us. In our own mind we possess the tools needed to overcome the obstacles that hinder our further awakening and the softening of our hearts.
So let us offer gratitude for the very obstacles that seem to block our way. When recognized and accept with understanding and compassion—both for ourselves and others—these obstacles transform into the very forces that clear our path. And thus, we come to understand that “the elephant that blocks the road, clears the path.” Om shanti.
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