Mind Machine

There are some things and seasons in life when you feel as though you have been treading deep water for days.  You are scattered, you feel overwhelmed, and you just want to tuck your head in the sand just throw in the towel. Truth be told, I feel like that every other day. Yet, I pause, breathe, and look up to the heaven and begin to verbally speak of all the things I am thankful for in my life.  I begin small and say I am thankful for movement of my limbs, family, a new day, loved ones, health, a sound mind, freedom, sight, hearing..." Then as I fully consider all that I am thankful for, the head-tucking seems absurd! 

I then embrace all of the feelings that enter my mind like doubt, fear, uncertainty, frustration, and explore and imagine what the outcome would be if I were fearless, certain,  and in peace. Some times it take me a few minutes, and most times it takes an entire recipe of intent to move past the feelings. I pray for strength and courage to move forward. I call a trusted confidant and share my feelings and I replay my life to every situation where I pushed pass the same emotion. There was fear when I learned to ride a bike, uncertainty when I started a new job, frustration when I locked my keys in my car and so forth. Yet, In every case, I rose to the occasion or found a workable solution to the situation at hand. I realized how much bike riding could be and spent the summers riding with my friends.  I learned the new role in the job and went on to receive promotions and accolades. Then, I called Triple A to help with my keys and ordered a spare set to keep in a secret place for emergencies.  

Once I got passed the emotion of it all, I found out about myself, I discovered a hidden talent, and I became wise and knowledgable in problem solving. Isn't it amazing how you can create the biggest obstacles alone and with your imagination! The human mind is fascinating and imprisoning at the same time! For me, I realized that my logic (things I think I know and see) restrict me and distract me from embracing the unknown (outcomes I can't see or predict) and exploring the possibility of knowing the end result - that could prove to be refreshingly positive or life shaping if not.  You win either way.  So, set your mind machine to hibernate and wake up your spiritual and discerning self. You'll be glad you did!