Your own incredible life path
Wouldn’t that be weird, if we were walking along our path and noticed someone nearby on theirs. Thoughts such as “Hmmmn, they have an extra stone on theirs to play with” or “their path kinks to the left before mine does – what does that mean? I’ll bet that goes somewhere amazing while mine continues straight on. I’m missing out…”
Sounds a bit like life, doesn’t it? It may seem simplistic to compare a simple walking path with our lives but in many ways we over-analyse life and read into things, making assumptions far too often that more often than not lead to misery.
We all begin at the same starting point and end in the same place too. Some of us take longer to get there, others get there quicker. To some extent, we can’t choose what will fill our paths although we do get to choose most of the direction (especially as adults) and we also always have a choice over what we want to choose and want to believe along the way. We can fill our heads with assumptions about life and others and criticize ourselves endlessly but neither will really end up a productive strategy.
Instead, choose to be mindful – engage with the path rather than focusing on other people’s paths – you do too much of that and you’ll trip because you aren’t looking at your own path!
Learn to make the most of the rocks, flowers..yes, and weeds that appear before you as you proceed. Stop and listen to the sounds instead of racing ahead to get to the end. You may get to the end sooner than expected and then wished you taken more time to enjoy the sights. That’s a fundamental rule of the game – you can’t ever retrace your steps!
You are just as valuable and worthwhile on your path, whether you are running ahead, walking slowly or sitting down in the grass for a while. Life has unfortunately been set up in a way that programmes us to be busy, to be looking ahead constantly and this serves society well as it keeps the shareholders reaping in the profits. Our worth is falsely tied up in our achievements. Don’t fall for it.
There is plenty along your path to sustain you if you look for it. If you choose to ‘programme’ yourself this way. Friends and relatives and experiences are where it’s at. Stopping for a picnic or to play in the rain and have a giggle while star gazing with someone you love. That’s what brings contentment. Slow and steady does it.
Mandy X
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
