Today’s Thinking Out Loud reflection is on Boris Pasternack’s work, Dr. Zhivago.
“How can you be yourself when you are being blown in a million different directions you can’t control?”
Note: Have you ever felt as if your being blown in a million different directions? I have. I felt as if I was in the middle of a storm with a tornado bearing down on me. It happens to us because living is complex. It’s dynamic. It’s unpredictable. Life can change in an unpredictable second. How can we keep it together and not lose our mind? Some people cope by using alcohol or drugs. They momentarily escape, but when the drug or alcohol effect wears off, they’re back in the storm. This is how I do it when I’m feeling rattled. I make myself slow down and tell myself that slow and sure is faster. I prioritize what has to be done. The most immediate first. And, I make time to go to my peaceful place for ten to 15 minutes. I breathe deeply for a minute or so and then name specific things for which I am grateful. Sometimes, I remain quiet and try to keep my mind empty (not so easy), but I’ve found that my silence is like a prayer and peace settles over me.
