I walked into a store and before leaving I visited the book section. It is my custom as a book lover to browse, to touch, and to linger with books. I love books. I love the words and the worlds they contain. I love reading. I approached one of my favorite sections only to discover disarray. The shelves were nearly empty and the remnants of books that remained were not stocked neatly—the books were all out of sorts. I approached with all of this love for books and I exclaimed, “Oh no it’s empty!!!” I walked closer and I was greeted by a piece of paper taped to my favorite section and the note read: “LEAVE OPEN FOR RESET.” I looked around at other shelves and this note appeared there as well… (KLB Journal Entry 06.09.2014)

The book section in this store is shifting in preparation for a new set up and the arrival of new reading materials. A part of this process requires workers to perform an inventory of the merchandise and once all books are accounted for workers are then instructed to reduce the price to increase sales, to donate large unsold quantities to discount stores, and to keep copies but in a new area. Some items are marked “do not inventory” because their continued presence is not contingent upon the current inventory criteria—these items are non-negotiable (sit with that).

The shelves were not empty as I first perceived. The shelves were OPEN. The difference between these two realities, open and empty, is perspective. Empty suggests that the previous state represents the best of all possibilities and therefore all energy is exhausted and an end is reached. Empty suggests finality. Open suggests the previous circumstance is no more but alas a new dawn waits.  Open suggests resources are coming. Open suggests that possibilities are infinite.  

Sojourner, an open mind, an open heart, and an open existence is the precursor to a new set up that will best display the new you.

Life Giving Spirit,

I honor what was even as I endure the demolition process that prepares me for all that is to come. I release [insert yourself and your stuff here]. I receive with a fresh perspective and increased gratitude all that remains a non-negotiable part of my journey including [insert yourself and your stuff here]. I make room. I am open. I am ready.

With a willing and courageous spirit I pray,

 Amen

"In the grand scheme of things, your life, regardless of pain and difficulty, is an unfolding miracle. Your life is the coming of a dream. Your life is the co-creative component of the Divine birthing process that happens within human consciousness and lived experiences [...]" -Kanisha Billingsley