Sandals and a Stick

It Bears Repeating

Gratefulness is a strong antidote to anxiety, depression, fear, worry, and even helplessness. I know this to be true because it changes my attitude - Every. Single. Time. It smooths out the edges, lightens up the darkness, and physically changes my posture from downward leaning to upward lifting. I’ve got a brain. I can remember recipes, phone numbers, and some chemical formulas. WHY then, do I continually struggle to be grateful? It’s like I’m purposely self-sabotaging my existence.

Attitude and Ice Cream

This morning, I woke up and immediately relived the experience. But something, probably because I had rested and my amygdala was hibernating, began to take shape in my mind. What if? I remember times when I prayed for help. I remember times when, in one form or another, help was received. Again, the question, “What if?” I decided to accept an imagined fact. I have no way to verify this new attitude adjustment. I have no way to guarantee that what I was thinking actually occurred. But the anger was gone, and joy filled its place. I’m going with the visualized scenario.

Pain And Suffering Are Not the Same

However, the above process does not always reflect reality. • What if physical pain does not come before suffering? • What if suffering becomes the beginning of the cycle? • What if ‘normal’ never comes at all?

I Talk to Machines

Well, it will take me more time to consider this 'normal'. I asked CoPilot about weirdness, and in my mind, it is! However, I will admit my appreciation for the praise bestowed upon me by this circuit-fed, algorithm-generated, mechanical but not, step-by-step automated responder.

The Allegory of Long Spoons

Our great country did not give them long spoons. We gave them empty bowls! How is this, Christian? How is this even HUMAN?

ONE PLUS ONE

I want to choose 1+1=1. It's gonna' take a bit of work.