Outlook vs Outcome

The distinction was pointed out recently in a davidji meditation on Insight Timer. I just wanted to make sure to get it down somewhere I wouldn't lose it. At the beginning of many of his mediations he asks questions... Who am I? Do I realize I cannot change the past? Do I know I cannot force the future? What am I grateful for? Who am I grateful for? Am I willing to be my best version of myself today? Then after a few minutes of pondering the questions he invites you to let them go to the Universe, "to handle" them. He also frequently invites you to set an intention and ask your heart what it most desires, hold that, plant that, imagine actions that would support that, then let that go as well. Give it to the Universe to work it out. 

We have control over our outlook but never the outcome. That is all. Brilliant. Simple. I have a poem for today as well. 

Clouds and Butterflies
The fears hover like clouds,
always, floating, drifting
blocking the light
filtering all that I experience

The bees & butterflies, my expectations,
fuss and flit and buzz about
distracting my attention
from the moment - the beauty
the truth, the unity that is reality.

There is nothing to be "done"
with the clouds or the bugs
They will not depart with all my wishing
no matter how much I pray or meditate
or practice or work or desire.

There is only to sit observing
in the clearing
calm and flowing.
Don't swat or hide or run.
Resistance is futile.
Only breathe & pause to wonder.
Notice don't think.
Observe don't judge.
Remember all is well and be grateful.

Laurie McCauley 4/8/22