Dooley Noted: 1/27/15
Yesterday, we were threatened with a blizzard.
As foolish people attempted to predict Mother Nature, I watched as people clamored to stock their shelves and get home safely.
This storm threat gave me an empty evening schedule, to which I’m unaccustomed.
So, I caught up on things that needed my attention.
Since storms have always thrilled me, I kept my window open, eager to see the blizzard in full force.
I had trouble sleeping, for I brimmed with excitement as I awaited the “storm of the century.”
But it never came.
I ripped some cards and phone books.
I played with kettlebells.
I did pull-ups until my body ached, trying to dissipate the anticipation.
As I finally retired to sleep, I felt as if I were grounded – as if I did something wrong.
And I did.
I have to relearn this cardinal rule each time as if it were the first:
“Have expectations, and you are setting yourself up for a letdown.”
Yesterday, I couldn’t appreciate the moments while I was in them.
I was graced with an afternoon and evening of rejuvenation. And all I could see was a promised storm I didn’t get.
Today, I awoke later than usual.
I looked out the window that showed the same meager, storm-less snowfall.
But I flipped the grounded feeling.
I started seeing I was given the gift of spare time. I hadn’t designed it for myself, but I was gifted it.
I trained.
I worked.
I laughed.
I called my mother.
I reflected on the amazing month I’ve had.
I reached out to people I appreciate.
I lived in the moment, not being let down by an unfulfilled expectation.
The heaviness of the previous day’s disappointment was gone. I was light as air.
What a powerful feeling it is to control your own perception.
You can let yourself be grounded, or you can feel yourself be lifted.
As always, it’s your call.
– Dr. Kathy Dooley
