I created this mandala in late 2019. I still vividly recall the feelings it stirred within me back then. I often found myself comparing my work to that of my teacher, never feeling it measured up.
Self-criticism became a constant companion. It led me to ponder: why do we feel the need to emulate others? Why are we always in competition with others? Why are we not able to appreciate and see our own worth and value?
A few days ago, my son saw my daughter’s Minecraft bathroom design and was enamored by it. He declared it the best design ever and was determined to replicate it exactly.
He tried tirelessly but couldn’t quite capture it, growing increasingly frustrated. He asked his sister for help, but she declined. His frustration turned into anger and sadness, and he insisted that I assist him, even though I had no knowledge of the game.
I asked him why he couldn’t create his own unique design, equally beautiful. He remained steadfast in his belief that his sister’s design was the best. I suggested he take a break and let himself calm down.
As I watched him, I wondered: Why couldn’t he see the beauty in his own creation? Why did he strive to be like his sister? His design was just as unique and special, yet he tries so hard to replicate his sister’s instead of letting his own creativity flourish.
It made me reflect on myself and question why I was witnessing this. What did I need to learn here? What was he showing me?
Soon enough, I realized what I needed to recognize and value myself. Much like him, I had constantly tried to be someone else, failing to honor my own gifts and talents.
Life becomes incredibly challenging when we attempt to be someone we’re not, yet we persistently make that attempt. The question is, can we release the need to imitate others and summon the courage to be ourselves?
This situation reminded me of a conversation between Master Oogway and Tigress in the Kung Fu Panda movie:
“Tigress: I failed Shifu.
Master Oogway: Worse. You’re failing yourself. No matter how much you try, you will never be Shifu. The question is… Can you be Tigress?”
It’s a reminder that only when we honor our true selves, our essence, and our worth, will we cease striving to be someone else.
So, today’s question to ponder is: Do you have the courage to be yourself? What lies beneath the lack of courage to be your authentic self?
Throughout our lives, we may encounter people who criticize our work, our worth and disapprove of us, making us feel small.
But if we are honest with ourselves and delve deep within, asking why we attract such individuals into our lives, we’ll discover that they are a reflection of our inner struggles, self-criticism, and judgments.
What we truly need is the courage to confront our inner demons and face the pain and hurt of not being able to be ourselves to set ourselves free. Realize that no one else stands in our way except ourselves and acknowledge that we are often our own harshest critics.
Today, I invite you to connect with the Mandala of Courage — to feel supported and to find the inner strength and courage to embrace your authentic self. Understand that you no longer need external approval or validation to recognize your worth and value. Know that you are inherently whole and perfect!
If you’re interested in obtaining a reprint of this Courage mandala to infuse your space with its energy, you can find it here: Link to purchase the mandala:
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