Holding Pattern

Ah, holding patterns. Everyone experiences them at least once. It is more likely going to be multiple times throughout life, though. You are working toward a goal, but no shifts are occurring. At least, no changes you can see. You just keep circling until anything happens. In my reading on holding patterns, I learned that they are related to planes. The more you know *shooting star*. There are three holding patterns planes use when…wait for it…awaiting clearance, especially to land. The three patterns are direct, parallel, and tear-drop. I enjoyed the name of that last one in particular. Sidenote: reading on piloting and flying is intense.

Direct Entry

The direct holding pattern is just what it sounds like – direct. Instructions are given; you go straight to where you need to go, make a few easy turns in the same direction, and land precisely where you planned on. This path involves peace and serenity.

Tear-Drop Entry

A tear-drop entry is not as straightforward as a direct entry. Sure, you start from the same place and end up where you had planned, but it isn’t all in the same direction. You start going in one direction, only to be forced to do an about-face to reach where you planned. This path involves tears.  

Parallel Entry

Parallel entry is by far the most confusing path. From the start, you are going in the opposite direction than you planned on. You have to make numerous turns to even get back on course. Those turns involve some sharp angles too. This path involves tears, swearing, and shaking your fist at the sky while doing both.

All Paths Lead

At any given time, multiple planes are circling, awaiting their turn to land.  Each is at the mercy of the powers that be as to when landing can occur. Whether direct, tear-drop or parallel; each pattern begins from the same place – the center of the craft.  In each instance, the pilot is instructed to await further instructions.

Stay On Target

I hope the point of this is coming through. In life, we start off on a path of our own volition. These paths generate from the same place for each of us – a desire at the center of our being. We want to achieve a goal, pursue something new, et cetera. At first, the going is smooth, progress is happening, we are feeling good about it. Then something occurs to delay the landing. It could be a slight redirection or a complete turnaround in which we lose our bearings. 

Despite how frustrating they can be, the beauty in the holding pattern is that it is always there to get us back on track. The number of turns and the directions they take are all rerouting us back to the original goal – to stay on target and eventually land. Yes, circling is annoying and tiring. It can feel endless, especially when having to check back for further instructions.  However, the circling leads to the landing. It is inevitable. The timing of the landing is provided to you, not forced by you. My encouragement is to enjoy the experience as it is happening. You are not the only one circling. Your turn to land is closer than expected.

Until Next Time,

Rah