You are unique, just
Like everyone else. What a
Glorious relief!
Hello Friends of Flying Needle!
Happy Great Snow!
- third winter solar node -
Hope this finds you well during these interesting times!
Seasonal Musings & Reflections
I want to remind you of something that you already know. There has never been and will never be a being who is exactly like you. The entire history of being-and-becoming since the birth of this universe had to unfold for you to be here at this moment reading these words. If you're so inclined, take a moment and contemplate this. What does it feel like in your body? What sensations, feelings and thoughts arise?
For myself, when I come into relationship with this perspective, I feel a sense of grounded presence, gratitude, and awe. Perhaps the greatest miracle of all is that any one of us exists, let alone all of us existing together sharing this contemplation.
And, at the same time that each of us is a unique expression of all that has been-and-is-becoming, we are remarkably similar. Similar enough that we share many of the same patterns of sensing, feeling and action, not only with other humans, primates, and mammals, but with the myriad different expressions of life on Earth. We are all together both incredibly unique, and fundamentally the same. What a relief!
If you are a regular reader of this newsletter, at this point you may be wondering:
What does this have to do with the practice of medicine?
Great question! Thank you for asking!
Our sameness is what allows us to perceive patterns, rhythms and rhymes between and amongst people. Our uniqueness is what asks that we remain present with what is expressing in-and-through a person in a given moment. Without observing and studying patterns we would be fumbling around in an overwhelming sea of novelty, without cultivating a capacity to engage in relationship through presence, we would lack the creative flexibility to meet people where, and as they are.
Medicine is a practice of both/and. Though if there were a word for 3, 5, 6, 8, 12/and it would be an even better fit!
This is why all medicine is experimental. Complex systems are deeply and pervasively context sensitive. No matter how broad and deep our view is, we will never be able to perceive all the contextual dynamics (relationships) that are dancing together at any given moment. With humility, reverence, and respect, we can meet together and try what based on study, practical experience, and open inquiry seems to have the greatest probability of supporting the alleviation of suffering and fostering greater well being.
How this offering, which in the case of Chinese medical practice is a treatment, is received and moves within a person seeking support, will give us valuable information about how to continue. The hope is that the person will feel better. The beauty of experimentation is that even if they don't, we will know more about what is going on which will help us to refine further experiments.
While no one gets it “right” all the time, in my observation and experience, working with an experimental orientation greatly increases the likelihood that we can be of use.
May your Winter days be filled with beauty, mystery, and friendship!
May you and your kin feel both rooted and free!
May all being and becoming receive nourishment!
Great Snow arrives free
Of her namesake. Winter's cold
And damp embrace us.
It is my sincere hope that you have found something of use in these words.
If you know folks who you feel would enjoy this newsletter, please forward it their way! Thank you!
Wishing you and all your relations wellbeing and good medicine!
With gratitude,
Taran