Exploring the Illusion of Control: Reflections from Michele Rae’s LHSC Service
In this heartfelt and wisdom-rich talk, Michele Rae of The Center Within explores the concept of control—both its healthy forms and its distorted, fear-based versions. She invites us to shift from ego-based reactions to soul-aligned responses through self-awareness, intentional presence, and inner attunement. By embracing our multi-dimensional selves—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual—we gain access to true empowerment, not by controlling others or outcomes, but by consciously choosing how we respond to life. Through mindfulness, deep listening, curiosity, and alignment with Source, we are reminded that we are not victims of life’s turbulence—we are co-creators of a more loving, integrated world.
Let’s begin with a radical notion: control, in the way many of us seek it, is an illusion.
So often, we grasp for control out of fear—fear of chaos, of uncertainty, of being misunderstood or unseen. Yet true empowerment doesn’t come from micromanaging life. It comes from within.
What If Control Isn’t What We Think It Is?
When we speak of control from a spiritually aligned perspective, we’re not talking about dominance or manipulation. We’re speaking of the capacity to manage our own thoughts, emotions, and actions with mindfulness and grace. This kind of inner control isn’t about overpowering—it’s about attuning.
Whether it’s responding to a stressful situation or pausing when we feel triggered, we always have a choice. We can react from ego, or we can respond from our Center Within.
You Are a Multi-Dimensional Being
We are so much more than our thoughts or emotions. We are physical, emotional, mental, energetic, and spiritual beings. When we center ourselves—through breath, presence, and intention—we access that deeper part of us that remembers: I am not separate from the Whole. I am Source, having a human experience.
From this space, we become more than reactive beings. We become responsive co-creators.
Practical Ways to Reclaim Your Power
Here are a few tangible practices to help you move from distorted control into soul-aligned self-leadership:
- Notice when fear shows up. What are the bodily sensations, thoughts, or behaviors that signal you’re slipping into control-for-survival mode? Awareness is always the first step.
- Soften into the present. Take a conscious breath. Invite your parasympathetic nervous system to lead. Feel your feet on the ground, your heart in your chest, your connection to something greater.
- Ask a question instead of reacting. When you feel defensive or judged, try responding with curiosity: “Can you tell me more about that?” or “What’s your perspective here?” It’s a moment of pause that opens space for connection.
- Give your inner child a seat at the table. When parts of us act out, it’s often because they’ve been banished or ignored. Offer yourself compassion, and integrate rather than exile those aspects of self.
- Choose just one quality to practice. Curiosity. Vulnerability. Mindfulness. Self-awareness. Pick one and embody it throughout your day.
Moving From Victim to Visionary
As we explored in the session, consciousness evolves through six stages:
Life happens to you
Life happens by you
Life happens in you
Life happens for you
Life happens through you
Life is you
Each stage invites us deeper into alignment with our True Self. When we begin to live from our Center Within, we no longer seek control to feel safe. We realize: we are safe. We are powerful. We are the answer we’ve been waiting for.
💫 You are the one you’ve been waiting for. The world needs you, living your most authentic, empowered life. Thank you for being here—exactly as you are.
If this message resonates with you and you’d like support embodying it more fully, I invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation. Together, we can explore what it means for you to live from your Center Within.
