"What if" and other useless questions

Hi all,

I wanted to echo Allison's response about completing "The Great 108". Many of us, when faced with a challenge begin the challenge with a preconceived notion of how it will feel and how it will turn out. "I'll never do that many.", "What if it hurts?", "What if I start and can't make it through all 108?", "If I try it, I'd better succeed." Our society is a results driven society. Turn on CNBC or listen to any corporate meeting and it is all about reaching some kind of goal. Don't get me wrong, having a goal is good as long as it helps you do your best. Goals become toxic when they cause fear and suffering (dukkha). "What will everyone think if I do/don't succeed?" "What will I think of myself if I do/don't succeed?" Note the "if" pertaining to the future which has not happened. Besides, once it is over, it is in the past. You made the effort.

I participated in my first mala as a physical challenge. I wasn't open to the multi-faceted experience. It was all about me. The way I approach malas now versus my first is this: I see the mala not as something to succeed or fail at, but as an offering to myself and others around me. I contribute by being there. Whether I "succeed" by doing all 108 sun salutations is immaterial (child's pose can be your best friend). For me, the "success" comes with the participation.

Lastly, I will say this, if you do not want to, that's fine, I'm good with that. But if you are not doing it for fear of the how you will do, throw that out with yesterdays garbage and come on out. I truly hope to see you there. If you come, you'll see me there. I'll be easy to recognize. I'll have a smile on my face before, during and afterward (albeit a little sweatier afterward). Open yourself up to it. You won't regret it.


--The only thing we have is the present. The past cannot be undone and the future has not happened.

Peace and big smiles!

John