The Balance of Nature, the nature of balance ...

"The Balance of nature refers to the theory that ecological systems are usually in a stable equilibrium (homeostasis), which is to say that a small change in some particular parameter (the size of a particular population, for example) will be corrected by some negative feedback that will bring the parameter back to its original "point of balance" with the rest of the system. It may apply where populations depend on each other, for example in predator/prey systems, or relationships between herbivores and their food source. It is also sometimes applied to the relationship between the Earth's ecosystem, the composition of the atmosphere, and the world's climate." (from Wikipedia, December 21, 2009)

"When we don't have something, we have to compensate, we have to find our balance in other ways." Emily Carr, Painter

The above describes the cycle of living. It occurs to me that our worlds - nature, our relationships, our scientific world, the spiritual realm; art, business, athletics, health/physical - all of the facets of living we experience are going through a kind of natural balancing act. We are catching ourselves before we go beyond repair. There are many great tools emerging that have taken a back seat to ambition, gain, competition and progress. The nature of balance is to regrow, refurbish, rework until equilibrium is restored. The balancing of nature is a wonderful model to observe. We also see it in our children, our animal friends and if we allow ourselves, we can see it in our individual and collective relationships inside ordinary activities. 

In art, in business models, in emotions - perspective shows us different ways of seeing. What works for one may not appeal to another eye. It is in the differences of perspective that we achieve balance. Some of the tools coming to the forefront for use in this balancing act are: Creativity, Compassion, Communication; Energy, Enthusiasm, Education; Originality, Openness, and being Others Oriented. As we utilize these tools, we can literally feel our lopsided world right itself. 

It begins at home - that is, with ourselves. Starting right where we are, seeing what is, scooping it up into our arms and appreciating it - this is a place to begin. If you already do this, the next step is to try out some of the tools. As we work with them, we find that we begin to see and feel and ultimately, act in new ways and the balancing act becomes a song, harmonious with those around us. The tension necessary to hold us upright returns.

It is important to note that balance isn't forever, at least not in our human world. We have a propensity for excess - too much of a "good" thing. As good as something may seem, moderation is best in all circumstances. (Thank you, Elmer) It leaves room for every thing, every one ... and that, my friends, is the nature of balance - eternal and there for us to use at will!

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Wishing everyone a blessed holiday with family, friends, and loved ones! See you in the New Year!