Let’s take a moment to reflect…
What goes through our minds when we face setbacks? Often, it starts with denying there’s a problem within ourselves. Denial can serve as a coping mechanism, helping us handle distressing situations by giving us more time to prepare to tackle the issue later. Yet, staying in denial for too long can become unhealthy, hindering our ability to find solutions.
Once we recognize this pattern as problematic, we can take action, understanding its undue impact on our lives.
- What if we notice this recurring pattern?
- Where could awareness lead us?
- What’s holding us back from becoming who we want to be?
Consider the profound words of Portia Nelson. After reading her poignant poem below, ask yourself again:
Life choices – are you making it or letting it make you?
There’s a Hole in My Sidewalk: The Romance of Self-Discovery
by Portia Nelson
I
I walk down the street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk
I fall in.
I am lost…
I am hopeless.
It isn’t my fault.
It takes forever to find a way out.
II
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I pretend I don’t see it.
I fall in again.
I can’t believe I’m in the same place.
But it isn’t my fault.
It still takes a long time to get out.
III
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I see it is there.
I still fall in…it’s a habit
My eyes are open; I know where I am;
It is my fault.
I get out immediately.
IV
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I walk around it.
V
I walk down another street.