Posted by Bodhisattva on January 4, 2008, at 13:10:22
In reply to Bodhisattva, posted by Dinah on January 4, 2008, at 11:44:42
Let me go on to clarify.
I think I've suffered and do suffer because of the fact that I used to and still on occasion try to live in the idea that something "out there" will bend to my will. By "out there" I mean anything that is not inside my own head.
Surely I can influence things, and other people with my actions and my words. But it is NOT my action that truly has an effect. It is the thing's reaction that truly has the effect.
If I were to attempt to sell something, I would talk about how good that thing is and how nice it would be to own it. But the buyer's reaction to both my words and the thing itself, along with many other factors decide if the thing is actually bought. But where I am in complete control is my reaction to the buyer's possible rejection. I could be so disappointed that I never try again. Or I could be invigorated by the challenge and try again with increased determination.
It's the acceptance of that truth, that has helped me cope with the unpleasant things that arise in my life.
poster:Bodhisattva
thread:804179
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20080101/msgs/804199.html