Daily Insight

We all live in a maze of mistranslations and misunderstandings about who we think you are and who others think we are.

Now, by lack of a way to know who we truly are, misunderstandings can be comforting, my friend; there’s no doubt about that.

But when you get so lost in the maze that it causes suffering, it might be time to start mending the misunderstandings.

Could it be that mending is nothing more than making another mistranslation about who we are that makes us happier?

After all, I can perceive myself as a struggling writer or a skilled wordsmith – both perspectives hold their truths.

It’s the power of our misunderstandings that molds our reality.

Over the years, I’ve become quite skilled at letting present worries overshadow past triumphs.

But what would it be like to let past triumphs overshadow present worries?

And what would it be like to have present triumphs overshadow past worries?

Maybe you know better than me, my friend. Or maybe it’s something you’d like to practice too.

Here’s a journal prompt to get us started:

What’s a forgotten accomplishment from your past that once filled you with pride but has since slipped away from your thoughts?

What am I scared of right now?

What are the chances that that scenario will come true?

What would happen if that scenario came true?

And what would happen then?

And then?

And then?

Is it really that bad?

Do I have the resources to deal with it?

Is this truly a catastrophe, or will I be fine either way?

Keep asking*, “What would happen then?”.* Look past the initial fears and challenges. And more often than not, you’ll realize that this too shall pass.

You know I like word games, my friend.

Let’s play with mistakes today.

I don’t like that word—such a negative emotional charge.

And what’s the opposite of a mistake, anyway?

We have a word for doing things wrong, but not for doing things right?

Could we call mistakes lessons?

Bleh, so bland. Heard that a million times before.

What about misguided actions?

Better. Actions that guide me away from my intended outcome. And after a misguided action, I adjust my strategy. I course-correct. Until I get it right and take… guided action?

We’re not there yet. But guided and misguided actions… I don’t know about you, my friend, but to me, that’s going in the right direction.

A bit like traction and distraction.

But that’s a word game for another day.

My actions affect my identity and beliefs.

And my identity and beliefs affect which actions I take.

So, to change, I must consciously take actions that divert from my established identity and beliefs, and do what you believe is impossible for yourself.

Until it’s not impossible anymore.

It’s not an easy road, my friend. It takes courage. Effort. Sometimes pain.

Many times, it’s not worth it.

But sometimes, there’s no other way.

And in those moments, it’s good to know there’s always someone willing to show you a path, paved by Tiny Trust Builders, taking you wherever you want to go.

Since you’re reading my letters, that someone could be me, my friend.

Or anyone else you know.

I guess all I want to say is: you’re not in this alone.

When I write, I write.
When I practice yoga, I practice yoga.
When I talk with friends, I talk with friends.

Or at least, I wish it were like that.

Because you and I both know how distracted the mind can be, my friend.

You don’t even need to meditate to figure that out.

So the mind needs a reminder once in a while.

“What’s truly important right now?”

I’ll be practicing every day.

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.