Self-Care Part 6
January 16, 2026
Self-Care Part 6: Trusting Heaven’s Timing
A few weeks ago, we were driving on the interstate when suddenly a plume of black smoke rose high into the air just ahead. Had a bomb exploded? Had a gasoline truck burst into flames? Within moments, the busy highway became a parking lot.
Firetrucks and ambulances rushed to the scene. Then helicopters descended. We were not close enough to see what had happened, but we knew it must be something terrible.
The wait was long, but knowing the gravity of the situation, we were patient. We did not know if there may be deaths, or if lives might be at risk. Finally, a truck driver next to us rolled down his window and said he had heard on his radio that several cars were involved, and one had exploded. From his cab, he could see that one vehicle in the median had no top half and another was completely burned out.
We waited quietly, knowing that time was precious for those receiving medical attention. We were willing to wait. But had we not known the reason for the delay, our reaction might have been quite different. We may have been impatient that we had come to a grinding halt. Why is this so?
The ego has its own plan and strategy for achieving its goals. When absorbed in that plan, anything that obstructs it feels intolerable. To the ego, its agenda is always the most important thing. That’s why delays, red tape, lack of replies to our emails, runarounds, or even standing behind someone in the checkout line who is taking far too long, can be experienced as blocks to our progress.
When it experiences these blocks, the unchecked ego complains, fumes, blames, acts out, resents, or stews in its own juices—all of which are refusals to join the present moment. However, the conscious soul relaxes into the present moment and perceives that there is a broader context of reality, rather than the ego’s narrow view. Out of the present moment we are told what the next step is, or we are told to wait.
The ancient Chinese Book of Changes, the I Ching, reminds us of living in harmony by its comparisons of life with nature. Like an unfurling leaf, we must relax into life’s unfolding. It teaches that the greater web of reality is far beyond our sight. Wisdom is not knowing everything but aligning with what is unfolding and letting the mystery ripen, while trusting Heaven’s timing in both small and large things.
Rumi’s timeless words echo this truth:
“Everything you long for has its own appointed hour.
When the time is right, it will bloom — not before.”
Taking care of ourselves includes ceasing the struggle to make everything happen according to our schedule. We trust that precious time is needed for what we cannot see.
Spiritual practice: What feels delayed or stagnant in your life right now? Reflect on Rumi’s words. What might they be asking of your heart?
Self-inquiry: How might you choose relaxation over frustration as a pattern of self-care?
Prayer:
Dear God, I pray to have the patience of Heaven. Amen.
