#503 It must happen

It’s hard to predict the perfect moment to write, where the stars align and inspiration strikes.

But you can make sure you’re there for it when it happens.

And the only way to be there for it is to write today, no matter the circumstances.

Because maybe the act of writing today is what makes the stars align.

Now is the time to put my heart on the line.

Because whatever I do at this very moment is a direct vote for who I want to be.

But before I let the gravity of the moment paralyze me, I realize – this is not my first vote, and it won’t be my last.

Another present moment will soon arrive, and with the passing of time, another opportunity to put my heart on the line.

Too much pressure on one moment leads to perfectionism and paralysis.

Too much focus on “this one moment doesn’t matter” leads to defeatism and lethargy.

Be intentional about the present moment because it’s the only vote you can directly influence.

Then be aware of the aggregate of your actions because your identity emerges from the majority of your votes.

Who do you choose to be?

If I want to act differently, I let go of the past.

If I want to act the same way I always did, I cling to the past.

Both clinging and letting go have their place.

I could cling to a habit of eating healthily, or treating others with kindness.

But maybe I could let go of a habit of self-criticism.

What benefits me? What benefits others?

What harms me? What harms others?

Who do I want to be?

I am inspired when I write, because I care about writing.
I am disappointed when I don’t write, because I care about writing.

I am delighted when there are no traffic jams, because I care about efficiency.
I am frustrated when the train is delayed, because I care about efficiency.

Strong emotions are the most honest answer to the question, “Do I care?”

”But should I care?” I hear you ask.

Well, my friend, that’s a different question.