On the Edge of Optimism
It was a cool fall day. My daughter (age 4) and I were having craft time, making paper hearts. They were scattered about the table and floor, all different sizes and colors. I just showed her how to make symmetric hearts, by gently folding the paper, drawing our marks and cutting out our little heart shapes.
As I held the paper in my hand, I began to think of the weeks of uncertainty, and my life which was unraveling. I thought: a heart, not opened is a raindrop or tear.
Then somehow knowingly, the little one bounces over, clutching her folded heart in her hand, “look, Momma… it’s an ice cream cone” as she animates taking a giant lick.
I’m forever grateful for my little muse for reminding me that not everything is as it seems.
My piece, Perspectives, shown above, is meant to portray that optimism and innocence while teetering on uncertainty.
Often, perspective is all that is needed. It’s not always easy, but here are a few ways to try to regain some balance, as you teeter:
> Take a walk. Literally or figuratively in a new direction, wander a bit in the what if, be patient and inquisitive about your surroundings. Concentrate on the positive.
> Try a new angle. What happens if you focus from very high or low or even push the trial to the peripheral view.
> A different point of view. Like the eyes of a child., the needs of your audience or the view of your adversary.
> Say it out loud. Say it to a trusted friend.
> and the ever-constant equalizer, give your thought, emotion, struggle some space and time.
It’s up to you to turn your teardrop into sweet ice cream.
May your tears turn to sweetness, your skies shine blue and your heart remain full.
Life is full of emotions, conflicts, catastrophes, and annoyances (all parts of life, all temporary). Sometimes easier said than done, but one can try to gain perspective by separating the thing from the experience.
