My date with Batman

Okay so this was a first, which I don't get many of these days.

Sharing space with a bat during meditation............we were nearing the the end of the evening's first class and looking to hit the mat for some relaxation, to focus in on the body, mind and spirit connection, when from out of nowhere (just like the comic books) along came Batman. Although I was told to stay low, I rose to get some assistance from the local Arena staff and the bat let me know in no uncertain terms that I still had issues with my fear of the creatures big and small......to my dismay the only way to try and get rid of the bat was to swat at him with a broom, this was distressing to all involved and was confusing to the yogis who were filing in to attend the next class........ as I continued to duck and run for cover I was inclined to let the broom dweller know that one of the laws of Yoga is non-harm to either the bat (or to humans -I was hoping this creature would take that into consideration and he did). After being tuckered out from being accosted he landed on the ceiling, we all decided it was better to pull the curtains and let him remain on the other side of the room while we began our evening practice. I quickly forgot his presence (not sure about the other yogis, but my aim is to help relax, release and let go....and that was what I set out to do.) Starting with some deep breathing, before we knew it we were immersed in our practice, by the time it came to relaxation/meditation I had all but forgotten the incident. It was a deeply moving meditation (for myself) I sank deeper and deeper into the process, letting go and finding myself not only giving the guided meditation but partaking in the whole process deeper than I had in my classes for a long time, this was not only about guiding others through the process this was about sharing in the process. As the session came to an end, I was surprised when the ladies informed me that our friend batman had been in our presence the entire time, weaving in and out and through and over all of us. I had not heard or noticed a thing, I can't say as much for the others. What I truly found astonishing was every one's calm and acceptance of the whole ordeal, I mean let's face it this is not Muskoka... I am thinking I should ask them to keep the bat and I can start billing the sessions as the Great Rural Retreat.

Now all this would seem just an unusual incident, except as we all know I am on my journey to enlightenment and just the day before had visited a place of knowledge to find clarity, direction, focus.... what I was shown was that I needed to deepen into listening to my own inner intuition, go on my own vibes, listen to my soul and let go off old ideas and perceptions that are holding me back from further growth. Letting go of long held beliefs or familiar behaviour patterns is never and easy task.......and on my drive to the class I specifically looked up and surrendered, admitting I needed help, some assistance, a sign...........Batman......

On my drive home I realized that this was somehow significant......I was compelled to look up the significance of Animal symbolism....here it goes.........

Bats symbolise: Death and Rebirth on a personal, spiritual level.
They are the guardians of the night, the cleaners, messengers, they represent happiness, longevity and good luck.
Shaman initiates undergo a ritual death in which they face their fears (did I say I was initially freaked) and are reborn without their old identities. Bat medicine teaches us to release fear and any patterns which no longer fit in with our pattern of growth. A new beginning, trusting one's instinct, the bat is powerful medicine.

He flew through and over all of us during meditation, who knew he was there to serve his purpose............Coincidence?.............for me it was just the sign that I had asked for and was looking for to keep me going.....to help me to believe that all the hard work, all the effort, all my questioning and delving, releasing and opening up, sacrificing is not in vain......and that I am on my right path.....allowing me to open up to letting go of fear and doubt and truly listen to my own inner voice..........the one that is telling me to express gratitude for small, seemingly insignificant events that can change everything in a moment......

I seek only to reveal my true self, which may or may not be the same tomorrow should I learn something new which changes me......

I feel honored by the presence of the bat and as always by the openess, compassion and wisdom of those whom with I share all my practices.

Namaste