Let It Go!

This morning I was struck by a phrase I read, “Let It Go”.  Ironically, I could not let the phrase go for a couple of hours.  I found myself thinking about these three simple words and how they seem easier said than done, but when we do, let it go, it feels freeing.

Sylvia Robinson said, “some think it's holding on that makes one strong; sometimes it's letting go”.  Holding on to judgment, negativity and difficult situations can cloud the mind and distract one from focusing on the present and what is really important.  However, the process of learning to “let it go” takes the ability to change one's mindset and to see past the negative by focusing more on the positive.

A couple months ago I was not in a good place.  A friend of mine, instead of letting me wallow in my own self-pity, asked me to go to a Cowboy Mouth concert.  Cowboy Mouth?  I had no idea who this band was or what genre of music they played, and despite my better judgment, assumed they played country.  Although I am trying to be more open these days regarding country music, I was definitely one of those people when asked what type of music I listen to would say, “anything BUT country”.  After some contemplation, I decided that just getting out of the house would be refreshing, even if I did not enjoy the music, being in the company of friends always puts me in a better mood.

Upon doing some research, via YouTube, I found the band to be somewhat funny, engaging and lighthearted.  The concert proved to be everything I needed to lift me out of my funk.  The band is based out of New Orleans and the performance that they put on is equals parts, rock-n-roll, therapy session, karaoke, frat party and Mardi Gras all rolled into one stellar show.

In one of their songs, titled "Jenny Says", the lead vocalist/drummer, Fred LeBlanc, known for his lip smacking, tongue lashing, sweat dripping and drumstick rolling, belts out,"You beat yourself up to bring yourself down/Let it go/let it go/let it go/Let it go/let it go/let it go/When the world keeps coming down on me/I let it go".  Not even five minutes into the performance, I was acting like this was my favorite band and I knew all the words.  Not only that, I was convinced that Fred was singing this song for me, at me and about me!  "Let it go, let it go, let it go, Let it go, let it go, let it go!!!!!!!"

Positive emotions and an ability to have an open mindset regarding the music and situation, lead me to have one of the most memorable learning experiences of 2010.  In 2011, my goal is to be reminded of that night, that show and more importantly, that positive experience that taught me to, "Let It Go".

Although it might not be easy, at first, to let negativity go, to let uncomfortable situations go, to let someone passing misjudgment on you or vice versa go, but it is the process of having the self-awareness and the willingness to change.   I was sent an email this morning which had a quote from Lucy MacDonald that read, "1. Start each day with a grateful heart. 2. Focus on the positive aspects of every person you encounter. 3. End each day with a grateful heart".  These are three rules that I hope to incoporate into my gratitude practice and mindfulness as 2011 progresses. Namaste~