We live in a world that is constantly moving around us. No one really has time to "stop and smell the roses" anymore. We find ourselves running in circles repeating the same routines over and over again, and before we have time to prepare, our worlds are shaken by the unexpected. There are shifts in routine. It's so easy to get caught up in that stress and agony that tags along with not knowing what comes next. However, there is still comfort in the unknown. I’ve come to realize that whether you are religious or not, in life there is always a “bigger” plan. The reality of our existence is that nothing goes exactly according to the agenda. Curveballs are thrown at our faces, twists and turns pop up on our walkways, giant pianos fall from the sky and stop us in our tracks. I'm talking about the heavy, hard-hitting stuff, the absolute worst-case scenarios that most people probably think "would never happen to me or anyone I know". Interestingly enough, there is no controlling these sudden changes. BUT there are ways to prepare for their effects and what lies beyond them. That is where the comfort in the unknown is found: in readying ourselves for the worst case scenarios while still taking advantage of life’s best opportunities.
Life sucks sometimes. Far too often do we run into “inconveniences” that mess with our stable lifestyles— whether it be a bad grade on a test, a fight with a friend, or the loss of a loved one. Regardless, these bumps in the road somehow always manage to dig us deeper and deeper into holes of our own worry, fear, and sadness. In the darkness of these grievances, however, we can still achieve light— light in knowing that, in the words of the song "Pumpin’ Blood" by NONONO, “you’re the catalyst to your own happiness”. We as human beings are capable of creating a positive atmosphere for ourselves even when it seems almost impossible. And trust me-- I know it feels impossible sometimes, but everyone can be the catalyst. It’s important to take advantage of this fact in our times of trouble because not only does being the catalyst help oneself individually, it is also magnificently contagious.
Talk to yourself and be picky: two mental reminders that I find myself constantly repeating in my head when I'm feeling down. I have realized through my own personal experiences that you cannot reach out to others for help without first coming to civil terms with yourself. The easiest way to do this is by quite literally talking to yourself— and I really do mean that. Speak the words out loud. Put yourself in both the Speaker and the Listener's shoes. This carefully places things into perspective and is likely to help you more easily figure out who or where to go to next. Which brings me to one of my favorite quotes, written by Jack Canfield, that says:
“Make a conscious effort to surround yourself with positive, nourishing, and uplifting people-- people who believe in you, encourage you to go after your dreams, and applaud your victories.”
It’s important to remember that not everyone is going to be that kind of friend for you-- and that is what makes it okay to be picky. By selecting the most uplifting network of friends, we are setting ourselves up for consistent happiness that remains genuine.
So what does all of this mean exactly? Not knowing what to expect out of life is a terrifying thought. However, getting caught up in fear of the unknown turns what could be a wholesome and happy life into a worry and stress-filled ticking time bomb just waiting to combust. Like I said before, it is way too easy to get caught up in the negatives of our lives. And while of course it is healthy to be able to express sadness and anger for short-lived periods of time, it is even more crucial that every time we fall, we get back up and return once again to a state of joy. Being the catalyst is seeking the good and placing emphasis on it, rather than dwelling on the downsides. One of my best friends Lauren Drawe once wrote that "There is so much in the world to smile and laugh at. Life isn’t a walk in the park and everyone is going to have a few bad cards dealt to them, but that is no reason to wallow yourself in sadness and anger." Things happen. The curveballs hit us, the pianos fall from the sky-- and life becomes unfair. In those times it is the most essential that we continue to seek joy and be the catalyst. When life knocks us to our knees on our worst days, let this be what helps us stand back up and keep walking forward.
