That’s what we say to, Billy my eight year old son, who refuses to venture up the stairs into our attic. Our house, built in the early 1930’s has one of those vintage attics with big open rafters and lots of space. But to get up there, you have to climb a set of dark, steep, and narrow steps. In fact, a door in the bathroom is the gateway and Billy refuses to enter even that room unless the door to the upstairs is sealed tight. Mind you, our attic could easily be made into a fabulous playroom or study, but even as is, its a pretty cool place.
Billy doesn’t know this, because he won’t go up there.
Five hundred years ago, the words “Beyond this place, there be dragons!” was imprinted on every map just at the place where the world reputedly stopped. Eventually, however, Columbus’ journey beyond the world he knew, led him to the Americas and upon new land, new people, and more importantly, new beginnings. The words were forever erased from maps and a new world opened up for millions of people.
Billy’s not the only one afraid of unfamiliar territory; many of us will cling desperately to what we know, rather than risk exploration of what we don’t. It is much safer and more comfortable to seal the door that leads outside and lock ourselves within more familiar walls. We have a litany of excuses that keep us from moving, then bemoan the fact that we are stuck.
Exploration has always been associated with the mysterious and possibly dangerous. But the real danger lies in our refusal to journey into discovery. Every day there is a place that beckons you, that lures and tugs at you, that longs to be traveled and explored. And when it does, do you shut the door? Close your eyes? Turn away? How long will you wait to discover what lies beyond your fears into a world beyond your dreams?
Many assure me that once Billy discovers the magical playroom that the attic really can be, I will have more trouble keeping him out! But isn’t that the way it always is?
“Beyond this place, there be dragons” should be within every mission statement of all religions, in education, the workplace, and every spiritual journey. It is an idea that should be taught to children and respected in adults. It is not a place to be feared for it is not the end at all.
Beyond this place is the place where we can begin.
Filed under: health and fitness, inspiration, life, monthly musings, power yoga, yoga, yoga alexandria, yoga arlington | Leave a Comment
No Responses Yet to “Beyond this place, there be dragons!”