In my experience, the quality and direction of my inner state is a big determinant of whether or not I enjoy my life. Outwardly, I may have to oppose or contradict, out of practicality or imminent concern. If that comes from a place of shortage–desire to control, out of insecurity or egotism (maybe they’re the same at a deeper level?)–it only seems to perpetuate more shortage-focused scenarios, where I must constantly control and worry about how to control what comes next, like some hellish game of whack-a-mole.
Inwardly, if I abide in a place of authentic well-being, regardless of whether I’m in outward conflict, it seems I avoid this trap, or pass through it unscathed. So that’s what I like to focus on, even if it might seem foolish to others.
Dirty Sci-Fi Buddha 
You have always come across as deeply introspective. It is good to be self aware. However, at my age (63) I just live, worry about being a good husband, write and cook to satisfy my creative needs, and focus on the now.
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Insightful. This rings true to me as well. Thank you for sharing!
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Inwardly, if I abide in a place of authentic well-being, regardless of whether I’m in outward conflict.
The Dude abides. Stay well.
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Ironic that I’m an ordained Dudeist minister. I take pleasure in your comment.
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I’m not sure if I’m a minister too. Years ago, I did get an honorary degree in Nescience from an online place in Medicine Hat, Canada. I think it made me an Agnostic minister. LOL
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Hi,
I read one of your novels and learned about stuff I don’t know, like war. Very interesting.
Regards, Connie
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Well said
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I think I’ll focus on that too!! 🧐
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Inner calm – or whack a mole – hmm. How do others know? I tend to focus on what’s for lunch.
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Very Zen wisdom.
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Not foolish at all Kent…I too find myself in such a quandary
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I totally get what you mean. I’ve felt the same—when I slip into control or fear, it feels like I’m constantly chasing after the next thing to fix, and it just drains me. But when I manage to stay centered inside, even if things outside are messy, it doesn’t pull me down in the same way. I am currently being mindful about not letting my brain go on overdrive!
And yeah, sometimes it might look a little “foolish” from the outside, like I’m not reacting enough. But honestly, I’ve started to care less about that. It just feels so much lighter to focus on keeping my inner space steady rather than getting caught up in every single conflict.
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