From Dr. Jane's Notebook


What to do when life is like a carnival


Sometimes life is like a carnival. There are so many things to do and so many choices to make. Problems can arise when we choose one activity over another, and then worry whether we made the right choice. We may wonder, “If I’m not happy with the choices I make, can I get my money back?” If we look for guidance, we may wonder who and what to believe. “If I choose the wrong thing, will I be ridiculed by others?” Or worse, “If I am wrong, will I torment myself for being less than perfect“? And you thought going to a carnival was easy! Here are a few more thoughts on the matter.

My over-used carnival metaphor suggests that life is a path that offers infinite opportunities and enticements. Along our path, each of us will make both good and bad choices, and we will experience both good and bad consequences. At times, we may feel motivated to make changes, take risks and hop on the merry-go-round. At other times, it may feel right to sit still for awhile and just watch “the show”. Sometimes, just when we think we’ve got things all figured out, armed with our plans, our knowledge, and feeling ready to go, something as silly as the weather will turn all of our plans upside down, reminding us not to take things too seriously.

After all, it is just a carnival… isn’t it?

©Copyright, 2012, Jane R. Rosen-Grandon. All rights reserved.            

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