Living "unattached"

A few weeks ago someone called me from our local College. It’s the college where I did my carpentry training, and where I also facilitated a Women in Trades sampler program last year.

Well, they called and offered me a position as a substitute instructor for one of the carpentry classes. Of course I am very flattered and excited that they would call ME! That’s pretty cool.

I am very clear on my values and the kind of lifestyle I want to live, so I couldn’t just say yes. I really had to think about it and make my pros & cons list. Both sides had very strong points.

I already have two very successful businesses that make me plenty of money, and fill me with joy and purpose. They allow me to live a delightful life.

I really enjoy teaching, and what a wonderful opportunity! Even better that it’s only for 5 weeks!

This created a really interesting feeling inside me… Spiritual leaders call this “unattachment”.

It refers to the state of being detached or free from excessive attachment, or clinging to material possessions, desires and outcomes.

As much as I try to practice these types of things, I have only ever experienced this in small doses for small things.

Like…

Spaghetti or burgers for dinner.

Watching this or that movie.

Ice cream or cake? (obviously both)

But I have never experienced this “unattachment” for anything really big.

Like: Should I take this job or not? Either outcome would be wonderful.

Living my “regular life” in the next few weeks sounds awesome.

Teaching and experiencing something new for the next few weeks sounds interesting and awesome too.

Whether I get the job or not, I am content and happy.

It’s been such a cool and enlightening experience! The whole interview / application process felt so free of stress and pressure.

This raised the thought: No wonder they teach living like this. It is absolutely magical. If we could experience life from this place all the time, oh me, oh my! We would practically be stress free.

It doesn’t mean we are apathetic, not at all! It’s enjoying life to its fullest, and accepting that we can’t control everything (or anything really).

The more we push in directions that we think are right for us, the more we cut ourselves off from input from the universe that’s trying to steer us in the direction that’s actually right for us.

It’s trusting. Listening. Watching. Feeling. Going with the flow. Experiencing. Letting go of control.

Sometimes what we want isn’t what we need. (except for cake. I want and need that)

It’s freedom.

That’s it for today!

You may call me Professor Jani now ;)

(ok technically I’m an instructor, but professor sounds way more fun!

That's me with my birthday pizza!