My intention today was to write something on reflexology, as well as remind you that you still have time to register for this year’s Therapeutic Hand & Foot Reflexology Professional Certification beginning February 2.
I considered Parkinson’s disease, hammertoes, menopause, phantom limbs, colds & flu – some of the many conditions that certified reflexologists commonly and successfully address. And then, in one of my many moments of distraction 😉 , I came across a blog post that so totally captivated my attention that all other possible topics faded away.
The article has nothing to do with reflexology or massage, so consider yourself warned, my friends! Hopefully though, like me, you are prompted to reflect on how you choose to respond to what’s coming at you in your world. Let’s face it; life does seem to be happening at warp speed these days, with impending events often heralded by predictions of gloom and doom.
I am referring to a blog post written by a Western woman teaching at a university in Japan. She writes about a reading/discussion assignment that centers on a lovely tale written by the American Buddhist Pema Chödrön.
I read this simple story, asking myself the same questions as were asked of Ms. Thomas’s students. At the end, as I read the comments expressed by the Japanese, I was reminded how easily I can become trapped in the emotions and perspectives which my culture has cultivated in me, and how differently we all might perceive a shared experience. I am thankful for the reminder this article gifts me: that my way – my vision – is but one of many valid ways in which to experience this wild and crazy ride.
And, by the way, I will write on those other topics at some later!
It is my belief that each individual views the world through a unique lens, no matter what culture they emerge from. It is this unique perspective that makes us individuals. For me the short story, Dusk On The River, reminds me that anger and frustration are very often useless emotions, that do very little to change the ultimate outcome of a given situation. It also reminds me that life is unpredictable, that just when we settle in to watch a tranquil sunset life can throw us a curve we were not expecting, and that we can do little about. I hope the next time I start to get upset about life I will remember this example. Thanks for the reminder Karen.
Well put, John. Many times in my adult life I have thanked my mother for not teaching me (by her example) to use anger to get what I want. Because of that, I’m a lot quicker to identify any percolating upsets for what they really are: a subversive way of trying to get another to do what I want them to do by getting angry, so that I no longer feel uncomfortable.