3rd Agreement - Don't Make Assumptions

Ruiz writes "We have the tendency to make assumptions about everything.  The problem with making assumptions is that we believe they are the truth.  We could swear they are real.  We make assumptions about what others are doing or thinking - we take it personally - then we blame them and react by sending emotional poison with our word.  That is why when we make assumptions, we're asking for problems.  We make an assumption, we misunderstand, we take it personally and we end up creating a whole big drama for nothing,  The easiest way to keep yourself from making assumptions is to ask questions.  Make sure the communication is clear.  If you don't understand, ask.  Have the courage to ask questions until you are as clear as you can be."  The Yoga Sutras teach us "For one grounded in truthfulness, every action and its result are grounded in truth."  One translation of the word Satya is the Truth which equals love. The Sutras teach that not only is there a responsibility to be truthful but loving as well.  Being firmly grounded in ahimsa or non-violence creates an atmosphere in which others can let go of their hostility. This will manifest itself as love and respect for all.  If we commit to ahimsa, practice peace, cultivate love for ourselves and others, this is what we will receive.  When we choose to embody these ideals we become a blessing and a healing presence to others.  Swami Vivekenanda said, "If in doubt whether to observe ahimsa or satya, always go with ahimsa."  Sometimes the truth hurts, but our truth does not always need to be heard.  When it does need to be heard, we must ask ourselves how to speak our truth peacefully so as to avoid hurting others.

4th Agreement - Always Do Your Best

Ruiz writes "Under any circumstance, always do your best, no more and no less.  But keep in mind that your best is never going to be the same from one moment to the next.  Everything is alive and changing all the time, so your best will sometimes be high quality, and other times it will not be as good.  As long as it's our best at that particular time, it's all good."  Patanjali writes "The practice of perfect discipline is achieved in stages".   By laying out the path to enlightenment, Patanjali reminds us that only through a steady practice - not book knowledge but through consistently regular practice, are we able to progress.  One of my favorite sayings is "you must begin from where you are".  This is true for your life journey, as well as the beginning of every day.

A focused and steady practice brings progress, not perfection.  This is exactly what Ruiz is referring to when he writes, "All of these old agreements which rule our dream of life are the result of repeating them over and over again.  Therefore, to adopt the Four Agreements, you need to put repetition into action.  Practicing the new agreements in your life is how your best becomes better.  Repetition makes the master."  Patanjali reminds us that "For those who seek liberation wholeheartedly, the goal of realization is near.  How near depends on whether the practice is mild, moderate, or intense."  There is a direct correlation between the level of one's dedication and the rate of development.  My words of encouragement to you - commit to mindful practice each day - your life journey will benefit.

Om Shanti,

Marianne

Marianne on the Web