Non-Judgement

I just came home from a visit with my Grandparents for my Grandfather's 90th birthday.  It was amazing to be there.  But also difficult.  I was around family for an entire 2 1/2 days. Whew!  In my youth, put in this situation, I would have spent the entire time preaching about politics, environmentalism, and social issues.  I would have yelled and gotten myself and everyone else upset and fighting.  Luckily the practice of yoga has taught me to be a more loving, compassionate, and non-judgemental person.  I have learned that when someone says something that seems ignorant that just downright pisses me off,  to just listen.  Listen to what other people have to say--maybe I can learn something.  Also, if I just smile and give love back, I feel better and everyone feels better.  My Grandparents will leave this world soon and I want the thing that they remember is how they felt loved and accepted.  I want them to leave in peace--they have done alot for this world and for our family.  

I am learning a valuable lesson from my family--the practice of non-judgement.  I have very different views on just about everything, but I love them all dearly.  They teach me that it doesn't really matter what people believe about this or that, its their essence that is the only thing real.  I love who they are beyond their beliefs.  I have also learned that I should only visit for about 2 1/2 days.