After I gave notice at work last Saturday, I began to notice an odd feeling of calm come over me, washing out what had previously been an ever growing sense of anxiety and fear over my decision to attend the spring 2008 Bikram Yoga Teacher Training session. I almost attended the Fall session in 2007 held in Hawaii but for a variety of reasons that never materialized.
Everything happens exactly when it's supposed to but we are the ones that struggle with events as they unfold and end up causing our own suffering because of it. I now see where had I attended the last session I would have had to deal with all of it's trail & tribulations by myself where as attendance at this session allows me to share it in every aspect with 2 very special people (Mary & Carla) who will be attending as well. We have another person attending from our area (Patrice) and although I have yet to be properly introduced to her, we have been exchanging emails for some time and I'm sure the 4 of us will be thick as thieves in no time.
Another thing that struck me was the amount of support that I felt from my coworkers upon the announcement that I had given notice. I'm not sure why, but there was a bit of anxiety building prior to my resignation. The automotive service business can be pressure packed and through the years I have met many people who are only doing it for the money it provides and would gladly give it up for something, anything that improved their "quality of life". I imagine it’s not unlike any other profession, but the stress level seems to be at an all-time high these days. I grew close to a number of people there in a very short period of time and it pleased me greatly that everyone wished me well as I veer uncontrollably onto the road less traveled, although I think most were focused solely on the Acapulco aspect of the training and do not fully understand what is involved in this undertaking. I imagine that I myself do not yet fully understand what is about to take place either!
To all of those who have committed to this session of Bikram's Teacher Training, as well as all of those who have committed before me, I salute you. I look forward to sharing the bond that attendance and completion of Teacher Training creates. I hope to make many, new, like-minded friends as well as strengthening the bonds I have already begun to develop with my fellow local attendees.
I also want to make sure that I thank several people here at the very beginning. Physical preparation started almost a year ago and many thanks to my chiropractor, Dr. Megan Rheingans (a practicing yogini herself) who selflessly rearranged her schedule numerous times to accommodate my ridiculous work schedule. Thanks Meg! I'm certain I would not physically be where I am today were it not for your assistance and guidance. I look forward to our continued relationship...
Thank you Herb, Laiki & Julie for your understanding and encouragement throughout this entire process. Your unique perspectives has gone a long way in making us all feel like we can overcome whatever obstacles present themselves during this exciting time. It's fair to say mental preparations began even earlier and there's no question that mentally I would not be where I am today without the 3 of you...
You have witnessed almost every great accomplishment in my life Robin Hall. Not only have you witnessed them; you have contributed greatly to them. I've grown to trust your judgment and rely upon your opinion (just not your driving directions). Please know that while there is a long list of things I hope to strengthen while heating myself in the crucible that is teacher training, being a better man (as well as companion) is definitely one of those items. You have my eternal gratitude and love for your support and acceptance as I stumble my way along this newly discovered path. I still see the twinkle in your eye that initially drew me to you and must confess that I now realize you actually started the work of making me a better man years ago. I'm just now beginning to understand what you have been up to, you little devil...
And finally, thanks to everyone who wishes us well and sends us positive thoughts as we embark on this new chapter of our lives. I'm hoping to maintain this blog in an effort to allow everyone to peek "behind the curtain" and experience a bit of what we will be going through. Your energy will be needed and greatly appreciated. I look forward to speaking with everyone upon our return...
I don't know what the next 3 months hold in store for me, my fellow attendees or this blog. I am reminded of the story of Hernando Cortez who in 1519 burned his ships to prevent all thought of retreat. I too have burned my ships (but not my bridges) to prevent all thought of retreat and have come to see this as an tremendously exciting time and an unbelievable adventure to be talked about for years to come with those courageous enough to follow their hearts in a different direction. That doesn't just mean those attending teacher training. Often times it takes tremendous dedication just to make it to class when everything else in your life says to stay home or do something else instead. Sometimes it takes tremendous courage just to stay on your feet, to stay in the room or to just get a little bit deeper into the posture when your mind weakens and you lose your focus during class.
It all sounds kind of cool when you say it that way, don't you think?
