Resist?

It certainly seems that RESIST is the word that is dominantly trending in our culture at this time. It is a dynamic, a force that is activated against what is externally happening. It results in an internal reaction, a pushing against what is undesired. This can and does happen at both the individual and collective level. While it is my intention to live in as much non-resistance as possible I do not see resistance as an enemy. That would be resisting resistance, and a futile waste of energy and precious life force.

Resistance is a masterful teacher when we begin to have a wakeful relationship to it. It is often said that what we resist, persists. That is an accurate summation of how this aspect of consciousness works. And it is a bit too tidy to be of much use.

Resistance is often a reaction to perceived injustice. In that way it is for me an angel seeking my attention and my appropriate action. Just as I learned many years ago in physical fitness class resistance can, if applied carefully and mindfully, result in added strength. If misused and too long sustained resistance can also result in depletion, injury, and burnout. To achieve a balance the spiritual activist is called to deal directly and prayerfully to the resistance happening in their own energy system. To bring presence to the level of resistance will glean the power and the energy from the increased contraction, making it useful and imbued.

When resistance is born of hatred and unbridled rage it is toxic to all concerned. When it is harnessed and spiritually aimed it is love-based and transformative. This is resistance training at its best. It moves us from a deeply seated mysticism to a radiating useful prophesy. When we use resistance it can no longer use us. Injustice, domination, abuse, and bigotry will always result in backlash. This is healthy and appropriate. How we address them will either bring about more of the toxicity or will transmute the energy into justice, freedom, dignity, and equality. To fight hatred from a place of hatred will only bring about more hatred. And to pretend there is no injustice will allow this cancer to kill and to destroy.

It is time for our culture to become the democracy we claim to be. “With liberty and justice for all” is a magnificent declaration of heaven on earth. When it is violated resistance will arise. Harnessing it peacefully, mindfully, lovingly, and in focused community will bring about the state of Union this country is to become. A culture of resistance then can become a culture of spiritual radiance. But we each must learn to have a conscious relationship to the energy of resistance. That is an inside job regardless of what is happening in the external realm.

What you resist indeed does persist. And so does what you love. What you cherish and hold dear. Take a stand for what is right and true within your heart. March, carry a sign, and chant. And harness the energy of resistance and aim it as love. It then must become reality.