As the wind howled over the cold winters night last evening and into this morning, I kept thinking about what the landscape outside would look like when I got up.  What I know about wind is that although it can be a weather wild card, this powerful element usually sweeps up the ground and clears out the brush that may have existed prior to its arrival.  I find the connection to be quite similar to our own lives, when we are filled with many emotions or contemplating dilemmas that can be life changing.  It is then that one should stand still, hear yourself breathe and listen to your heart after the rushing currents of wind circle you with a cool current of unknown.  Normally it is our ability to withstand storms, that allows us to see what can be a brighter morning the next day.  If you find yourself in such a place these days, remember the elements like the inclement weather that can occur outside your window.  If you are resolved to follow what you hold near to you and stick to your convictions, then you will find yourself having withstood a storm that you can later recall may have been the catalyst that moved you forward in your life even further.  Part of our life's journey is to continue to grow and peel away more of the unneeded layers of our life that are no longer useful.  It can be difficult sometimes to let go of the familiar because it is what you know and where we have the greater difficulty is in proceeding through territory that makes you feel uncomfortable due to its unknown origin.  I believe that sometimes our own heart and mind prepares us to take a leap of faith and what happens afterwards can be part of a great period of growth and evolution for us as a result.  Today, think of the many things that you would like the wind to finally sweep away from you and as you stand in the swirl of those currents, thing about about the new person you are becoming.  It won't be too long before you realize that the wind storm has passed, while the landscape around you looks bright, crisp and clear.  The newer better version of you has been forming for some time and this can be the opportunity you were looking for to finally leave the old parts of you that you did not intend to take into another New Year.