DeborahBurkeHenderson.com

JUNE 2026 – OBSTACLES

Take a moment to explore your perception of obstacles. Do you see obstacles as stumbling blocks in your path? Do they bring about frustration and tension?

Life is filled with setbacks, mishaps, and uncertainties. It’s up to us to keep an open mind about what these challenges might mean. Our mindset is critical.

Obstacles, distractions, and interruptions naturally arise in life. We must recognize these irritations and observe them as best we can, without judgement, and take them in stride.

Although our instinct may be to avoid obstacles, when we try to escape them, our suffering is only prolonged and intensified. With a mindful approach to living, we can gently practice being with our pain and working through whatever is causing it. Obstacles then become steppingstones to greater awareness and abilities.

Amidst the discomfort it is hard to fight through adversity, but by doing so—when we can touch suffering without being broken by it—we will suffer much less and continue moving forward. We must always strive to move forward, even if it’s only one step at a time.

Take time to work through suffering by sitting in moments of stillness. Engage in conscious breathwork. Remember to be gentle with yourself. Embrace a tender sense of courage. Do everything from a place of love and compassion. Be open. Listen for your inner wisdom which will guide you in creative problem solving. As these experiences come and go, your hardships will become a cause for growth. You are on the path of embracing greater peace and understanding.

Author Victoria Erickson has said, “Transformation is a complete uprooting before becoming.”

What hardship has positively transformed you? How so?

When you can focus on the positives around you, even the smallest things, you will find moments of grace and gratitude. Look for unexpected blessings that come your way. These moments will help uplift you, strengthen you, and carry you forward. This will allow for some spaciousness, freedom, and a greater clarity in concentration.

With intention, view obstacles as part of your life training and growth. Share what you learn with others; they, too, need comforting on their journeys.

Blessings to you and yours,

Deborah

      ________________________

“Obstacles do not block the path; they are the path.”

—Zen proverb

My morning mantra:

"I arise this morning with a smile. Twenty-four brand new hours are before me. 

I vow to live fully in each moment and to greet every being I meet with compassion."

        ~ Thich Nhat Hanh, Vietnamese Buddhist monk, peace activist 

                                                                                    [1926 - 2022]