Unleashing Joy 🌻 Through Powerlessness: A Weekend with Elizabeth Gilbert

Hi Love,

This past weekend, I had the privilege of attending a workshop led by the remarkable Elizabeth Gilbert, author of "Big Magic," "Eat, Pray, Love," and many other notable books. Over the course of two days, Liz created a space for magic, reflection, insight, laughter, tears, and reckoning with reality.

One of the most powerful exercises we did was to examine the ways in which we are powerless over the world around us. We often focus on the negative aspects of powerlessness, such as our inability to control time, war, famine, or other people's beliefs. But what if we shifted our attention to the things we can't control that are actually truly beautiful?

Liz asked us to surrender our power to the things that delight us, and suddenly, the idea of surrender didn't seem so daunting. By letting go of our need to control everything, we open ourselves up to experiencing bliss and joy.

Here's my list of 9 things I am powerless over that are amazing and beautiful:

After writing out our list, Liz looked me in the eye and said, “You, in the pink jacket!” and handed me her microphone from the stage. I felt awe and wonder. After sharing my list with the group, I was filled with gratitude and awe. The exercise had allowed me to see the beauty in surrender and to appreciate the things that bring me joy as well as the universality of so much of what delights us.

Now, I invite you to try this two-part exercise for yourself:

Surrender to Powerlessness

1. Write out 10 things you are powerless over (people, places, things). Some examples:

• The rain
• The color pink
• Someone else’s life choices
• Someone close to you passing

2. Write out 10 things you are powerless over that are amazing and beautiful. Some examples:

• See my list above ;-)

As you engage with this exercise, I encourage you to let go of any preconceived notions and to truly explore what lies within your heart. What comes up for you? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences, so please feel free to reply to this email and share.

Remember, surrendering to the beauty and wonder in our lives can be a powerful way to find joy and contentment, even in the face of uncertainty.

As you go through your day, I invite you to keep this exercise in mind and notice the moments where you can surrender to the beauty and joy around you. Embrace the power of powerlessness and let it transform your perspective.

With love and gratitude,

Amanda