Obstacles are tricky things…

If we think of someone pursuing a noble goal, like finding a cure for cancer, or trying for Olympic gold, then obstacles are merely tests of determination. Overcoming them shows commitment, resourcefulness, and an undeterred sense of purpose. If you focus on your goal, you can find a way around any challenge or complication.

On the other hand, if we consider a less than noble goal, obstacles take on a whole new dimension. For instance, if the objective is to feed an addiction to drugs, alcohol, gambling, food, online socializing, or the thrill of an illicit affair, the obstacles serve as a warning for you to stop, think, prioritize, and choose wisely.

Posted in addictions, bad habits, choices, compulsions, guilt Comments Off

Many of my boyfriends were imaginary. I don’t mean that other people couldn’t see them; there were actual boys standing in for my make-believe versions. But those flesh-and-blood people were NOT the ones I was having a relationship with. I was in love with my idealized version of who they could be, and a fantasy of who WE might one day be together.

Lately I’ve come to realize that this fictionalizing of the real world is what often leads to affairs and broken hearts. Particularly in these days of texting, instant messaging, Twitter, Facebook, emails, and other virtual social lives, almost every human relationship has become a bit imaginary. I’m not saying every affair is based on lies and imaginary conditions, but I do know that a good many of them are. The problem is that the illusions eventually fade.

Posted in bad habits, choices, family, love Comments Off

This picture was taken at a beautiful beach in Georgia. What’s that? You can’t see the beach? But it’s there… the sand, the sea, the sky… the inspiring wonders of the universe. What you are focused on, and the only thing you clearly see before you, is a snake. And what you are feeling is fear and anxiety.

In your anxiousness, you wonder what kind of snake this is. Maybe it’s dangerous. Maybe there are more lurking. They might be in the water… waiting to prey on you as soon as you start to get in! That, combined with the dangers of the sun, and possibilities of drowning, make this beach day no fun at all.

Posted in anxiety, bad habits, choices, inner peace, Overcoming Challenges 1 Comment »