Wed | Jan 21, 2026
WISDOM OF THE WEEK

What’s in the way is the way

Published:Sunday | January 26, 2025 | 12:08 AM

When life doesn’t unfold as planned, we often question why and blame external factors. Have you ever wondered why things don’t always align with your expectations? Let’s understand the deeper perspective.

WHY IS IT ‘IN’ THE WAY?

If your present reality isn’t what you had envisioned, there is a deeper reason to uncover. Every experience of life — whether positive or negative — stems from seeds we planted in the past. Nothing happens randomly even if it seems that way. Consider how we react to life’s surprises: when something wonderful unexpectedly happens, like a promotion, a new opportunity, or meeting an ideal partner, we feel grateful and happily embrace it. But when things go wrong, we’ are quick to complain as the mind asks, ‘Why is it in my way?’

Both outcomes, however, are the fruits of seeds we previously sowed whether we remember planting them or not. Our present is the result of past actions, thoughts, or decisions. Understanding this frees us from blaming, and we shift our focus to being aware of what we are sowing today. The seeds we plant now will determine the harvest of our future. This understanding makes us more mindful of our actions and intentions, knowing they shape our tomorrow.

HOW IT ‘IS’ THE WAY

We tend to label our present experiences as pleasant or unpleasant based on how they align with our desires. When things are unpleasant, we often try to eliminate the perceived obstacles whether they are people, circumstances, or challenges. But fighting against what is in the way only brings more struggle and dissatisfaction into our present.

What’ is in the way is a consequence of our past actions, and how we respond to it determines what will come next. Instead of trying to eliminate the obstacles, accepting them as the stepping stones of the journey leads to growth. What is in the way is not a mistake. It is the way to the next chapter. There is no other way than the one presented by the current moment.

EMBRACE THE WAY

Resistance to what is creates the greatest hurdles in our present and future. When we learn to embrace, we begin to see opportunities for progress. If we repeat the same actions and attitudes as yesterday, we’ll keep experiencing the same results. Change begins when we shift our mindset and approach the present differently.

The key is understanding that we can’t change what is already in the way. However, we can change how we navigate through it. By responding with acceptance and a willingness to grow, we create a path for transformation. Each moment of acceptance and thoughtful action creates a new way. Embrace what is in the way because it only is the way forward.

Courtesy: Rajyoga Meditation Centre, Kingston (meditation courses and counselling are offered free of charge). Get in touch via email: bkmeditation.jam@gmail.com or WhatsApp: 876-853-7848. Follow them on Instagram: rajyoga_meditation_jamaica.