Embracing the Calm Within
“You are the sky. Everything else—it's just the weather,” is literally one of my favourite quotes by Pema Chödrön.
As an extremely busy mom of 3, including special needs, this quote reminds me that within each of us exists a vast, unchanging presence—a steady sky that holds space for all of life’s storms, sunny days, and even the fleeting moments. It’s a gentle reminder that no matter how chaotic or overwhelming life may feel, we are not the turbulence; we are the expanse that contains it.
I know this is easier said than done. How can we stay connected to the calm, expansive sky within us when the storms of life feel relentless?
The key is to remember: the weather is temporary. It may feel all-consuming in the moment, but it always passes. The sky—your true self—remains constant, unshaken by what moves through it. This perspective can help us navigate life’s ups and downs with greater grace and resilience.
Applying This Wisdom to Everyday Life
1. Pause and Observe
Life often feels overwhelming because we get caught up in the moment. When you’re in the middle of a stressful situation or intense emotion, take a moment to pause. Close your eyes and imagine the vastness of the sky. Recognize that what you’re feeling is like a passing storm—powerful but impermanent.
This simple act of visualization can create a sense of distance from the intensity of your emotions, reminding you that you are more than what you’re experiencing in that moment.
2. Detach from the Chaos
It’s easy to believe that we are our emotions. We say things like, “I am angry,” “I am anxious,” or “I am overwhelmed.” But what if we reframed it? Instead, try saying, “I am experiencing anger,” or “Anxiety is moving through me.”
This subtle shift in language creates space between you and the emotion. It reminds you that you are the observer, not the storm. The weather may be intense, but it doesn’t define the sky.
3. Return to Your Center
Life’s storms can make us feel untethered, but grounding rituals can bring us back to our center. Light a candle (I personally recommend Melody of Rain for this one), breathe deeply, and recite affirmations like:
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“I am steady, even amidst the storm.”
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“This moment will pass, and I will remain.”
These small practices can anchor you when life feels unsteady, helping you reconnect to the calm and expansive presence within.
A Gentle Reminder
Life is unpredictable, and the weather will come and go. There will be days of radiant sunshine, where everything feels aligned, and days of pouring rain, where the weight of the world feels unbearable. But even in the darkest storms, the sky remains untouched—holding space for the rain, the thunder, and eventually, the rainbow.
You are that sky. Boundless. Limitless. Unchanging.
So, when life feels heavy, remember Pema Chödrön’s words. Take a deep breath, light a candle, and remind yourself that the weather will pass. You are the calm within the chaos, the steady presence that holds it all.
Creating Your Sky Moments
At Poetry in a Jar, we believe in the power of creating sacred moments amidst life’s chaos. Lighting a candle is more than just an act of self-care; it’s a way to reconnect with your inner sky. Whether it’s a calming scent for grounding or a refreshing fragrance for renewal, our candles are designed to help you find peace and stillness in the everyday.
Let this be your affirmation: I am the sky. Everything else is just the weather. Create your sky moment today and let your light shine through, no matter the storm.