The poet audre lorde wrote, “Caring for myself is not self-indulgent, it is self-preservation and that is an act of political warfare.”

This quote has been a personal north star for me, and it is one of the best ways I know to describe the strength, depth, and power of this month’s focus: the Parami (perfection) of Resolve.

Resolve is often conflated with, but is more subtle than, intention. Resolve is more like the quality of being determined that pulls intention through to the other side. It’s a process inspired by a life committed to non-harming of any kind, especially to ourselves. This persistence doesn’t grasp or cling because it’s born of a place of confidence and clarity, not fear or anger. It’s a quality of heart that is firmly established so that when we are in a time of crisis, there is a steadiness and ease that we can navigate from.

Dear Ones, we are in the midst of a great sea change, both politically and socially. We are being asked to divest in companies and spiritual organizations that support or have not publicly spoken up against the atrocities facing our global community. And though there is something incredibly powerful in divesting, it’s important to decide what we are choosing to invest in. What clouds the heart and mind so often is centering what we’re fighting against instead of what we’re fighting for.

This Parami of Resolve, and all of the Paramis, only become “perfections” when they connect to compassion and concern with the world around us. This level of commitment gives what we’re investing in a purpose and meaning. It adds value to our intention, inspires our devotion, and brings our hearts and minds to a concentrated place that allows for follow-through. I recently heard someone say, “It’s when the heart tells the brain, and then the brain needs to sort it out.”

In her public appearances, audre lorde famously introduced herself by saying, “I am a Black, lesbian, mother, warrior, poet doing my work, coming to ask you if you’re doing yours?” So, as we turn our hearts and minds toward the Parami of Resolve this month, there is an invitation to explore what it is that you are standing for? What supports the stability of our mental health, our relationships and how we care for ourselves? What is your resolve?

Leslie Booker
Guiding Teacher
New York Insight