Constriction & Ease

All people regardless of their station move in and out of times of “constriction” and “ease”. This is no different for the Sufi. Everyone loves the times of “ease” and few people welcome the times of “constriction”. But for the Sufi each state is a gift from the Beloved and is treated with respect and politeness. 

It’s important to understand the nature of both constriction and ease. For most people constriction is considered a sign that something is wrong or that something is wrong with them. The Sufi understands that constriction is a fundamental part of spiritual evolution. Constriction is when we come upon our limits and are unconsciously going through a growth spurt. Something is changing, something old is readying for transformation, something is rising up from within for healing, something is attempting to expand beyond its container, a download is about to be received, an upgrade is about to be performed, something inside you is surrendering over willing or unwilling for healing, a veil may be about to be lifted, misconceptions are giving way to truth, files are being updated, Allah (swta) is squeezing something out of us that we no longer need. These are just some of the ways we can experience constriction. You have not done anything wrong, you are just moving through a time of constriction. 

The more you can let go and as Sidi says, “be like wool between the hands of Allah (swta)”, the more gentler and cleaner the process will be. Know that the majority of your being is still completely intact. It is only one part of your being that is in process and about to transform, not your whole being. Yet this part may feel like you are about to die or “it’s overwhelming,” the truth is you are actually fine, you are just moving through a time of constriction. 

I like the analogy of a “washing machine”. With a washing machine you have the solid outer structure that doesn't move and then you have the spinning/agitating parts that do all the work. The Sufi is like this washing machine, we have the solid container that is anchored in Allah and we have items that are “in process” at the same time. The solid container stands in its truth while what needs cleaning is agitated and spun as it goes through the “constriction” process where Allah (swta) pulls apart, cleans and reassembles whatever is “in the wash”. Meanwhile He keeps our outer container contented and firm. So when you are feeling like you are spinning and agitated remind yourself about the solidness of your container, feel for how Allah is supporting you and holding you with love while a small part of your being is moving through a time of constriction. 

When the wash cycle ends, the time of constriction gives way to a time of ease.  With each cycle you will begin to feel into the sweetness, love and mercy that is employed throughout the time of constriction, look for it and soon you will be equally content with either constriction or ease. Sidi has told us that the times of constriction are far more precious then the times of ease, for the Sufi who understands. For the Sufi who finds happiness and contentment in cleaning, he/she is always happy. The Sufi doesn't resist an opportunity for intimacy with the Beloved therefor each constriction is given ease which gives way to ease. Only Allah!