Melanie Spring and Dan Russell are the cofounders of One Moksha, a community of leaders, rebels, and enlightenment seekers who are on a mission to heal and transform into their best selves. Melanie serves as the Leader of the Brilliant Rebellion, where she helps people become more aligned in order to identify and pursue their life’s purpose. Dan serves as the Leader of Hama, where he creates intimate, unique spaces for healing and personal transformation. Together, the Brilliant Rebellion and Hama, and Dan and Melanie, are the yin and yang at One Moksha.
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Are we really ever in control?
Published 11 months ago • 4 min read
A few months ago, when Lexi shared that she wanted to post some of her stories in the One Moksha Network, I was overcome with joy for numerous reasons.
Just over 18 months before this, I had received Lexi's retreat intake form and read her words out loud to myself: "Please don't push me outside of my comfort zone and definitely don't ask me to speak to the group."
At that gorgeous home in Palm Springs, I watched her step out of herself and into the woman I saw inside of her. She shared in front of the group vulnerably, walked around in front of strangers in her fluffy pink robe, and gave herself permission to laugh loudly no matter what others thought.
Yes, Lexi had self-doubt and imposter syndrome thinking the others had all their shit together, yet she knew there was something in her that needed a change. She knew she had to make a decision to have a totally different life. And that decision allowed her to step fully into her true self––a woman of strength, courage, and love.
I don't have to tell you how much her life has changed, I'll let her do that in her own words. The following is a testament to being willing to let your guard down and allow someone to walk with you as you find your way through the darkness. You don't have to do this life alone.
Lexi at sunrise on Madeira Island
Are we really ever in control?
A love letter to you from Rebel Guide, Lexi Tucker:
I drove across several states not enjoying the scenery the way I could have if I had known the outcome of the thing that worried me. Instead of taking in the landscape and appreciating the vastness of the open spaces between California and Texas, I gripped the steering wheel, making contingency plans for every scenario I could imagine.
I could have savored every beautiful moment, grateful that I was finally choosing a life that reflected my true desires, but doubt directed my thoughts.
The fear of the unknown had me scheming as I drove east, preparing for the worst, making backup plans for my backup plans.
Worrying did nothing to influence the outcome, and the multiple plans I made in case everything fell apart made my jaw ache and interrupted my sleep. I executed a plan to honor what I knew I wanted my life to be—I knew it deep down in my bones, yet it felt so unnatural. ‘Surely none of this will work out’, I muttered every so often as I watched my old life disappear in the rearview mirror.
Why did I do this? For the same reasons most of us do: to feel in control of things we have absolutely no control over.
photo of Lexi in Fanal Forest, Madeira - by Mary Gardella
Over the past year, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of myself and the limits of control I have over various aspects of my life. I’ve learned that despite the considerable time and energy I invest in trying to control outcomes, I can only influence the odds to a certain extent, and usually the effort takes a toll on my mental and physical health.
I know that strategic actions certainly can increase the likelihood of achieving desired results, but I've realized that the actual outcome often remains beyond my full control.
On a fundamental level, I think we all understand that control is limited but it’s remarkable how many of us still exert extraordinary effort to bend circumstances to our will.
I have been fortunate to have the guidance of someone who has waited patiently for me to find my way this past year. She lit up when I announced to her that despite all my efforts things just work out and often not the way I intended.
Melanie: So, you realize you’re not actually in control at all?
Lexi: No, I’m tired and worn out from all this effort and so much just happens the way it needs to.
Melanie:And trying to control it just makes it harder.
Lexi:Yeah, and it takes up space when I could be doing something else.
Melanie: So, what would you rather be doing?
Lexi:Exhale...and a long pause
This invitation to replace worry with something I’d rather be doing is exhilarating. I’m excited to see what I create and how my mental and physical health will improve.
With love, Lexi Tucker-Caselli Retired Arborist & Brilliant Rebel Guide
A delicious invitation to shift your life:
Lexi texted me this morning from her Airbnb in Austin, Texas as she finalizes the closing documents on her house in Northern California and said: "Sam and I had a long talk this morning reflecting on how none of this would be possible if he hadn’t joined me on this journey. And if I hadn’t gone on this incredible journey with you. We are SO f*ing happy to be here and not toiling away in a life we didn't love anymore in Sonoma County."
Lexi is fully living the life she loves and it wasn't that long ago where she felt totally lost, confused, and stuck in a life that felt like a prison of her own making. We've fully audited her life, given her the power to step into her intuition, and she now walks down this beautiful path of growth with her partner by her side. Now she's even supporting others in their growth.
You can join her on this journey without spending a dime. Not even a penny.
I created The Intuitive Audit (grab your free spot) for you to set up your life AND work to crush your goals, not your soul. Let's get you grounded and focused in ease and flow instead of hustle and grind.
Join us live August 21 & 22 for two days of growth, community, and support in getting to where you want to be. Bring your questions, invite a friend or coworker, and get answers from your higher self. (I promise it'll be a lot more fun than doing it alone.)
Melanie Spring and Dan Russell are the cofounders of One Moksha, a community of leaders, rebels, and enlightenment seekers who are on a mission to heal and transform into their best selves. Melanie serves as the Leader of the Brilliant Rebellion, where she helps people become more aligned in order to identify and pursue their life’s purpose. Dan serves as the Leader of Hama, where he creates intimate, unique spaces for healing and personal transformation. Together, the Brilliant Rebellion and Hama, and Dan and Melanie, are the yin and yang at One Moksha.
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