Creating Space…For Neutral Emotions
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Creating Space …For Neutral Emotions
Photo courtesy of Ivan Dostál on Unsplash
I’m fine. In this very moment I’m surveying my emotional self, I’m checking in and asking myself “how are you doing right now?” And the answer is, “I’m fine.” There was a time when that response would’ve left me pondering what was missing. Where was the joy, the excitement, the “zest” for life??? But the reality is, although those things do exist, they are likely not present every single minute of the day, or every single day even. And “I’m fine” is just fine.
As you may have already observed in some of my other blogs or social media posts, I am a huge fan of Cory Muscara’s teachings around mindfulness and mental well-being. I subscribe to his texts, and not long ago I received this message.
“Be mindful of the neutral moments. They may not feel like much, but they represent the absence of pain, struggle, and confusion.””
I mean, wow. Yes. I may not be in a space of eternal bliss, or so delighted that I want to do a cartwheel, but I AM FINE. Which means in this moment I’m not in pain, or maybe I am, but I’ve also found a sense of coping and neutrality that says, my feelings are neutral, and I’m ok. So I’m not suggesting there is no struggle, but what I’m exploring here is the emotional response in that moment. Because I know what it feels like to not be fine, we all do. We know what it feels like to be in a state of despair or hopelessness, or to be enraged or sorrowful. And yes, we have to create space to observe, explore, and tend to those feelings too. But alongside all of that, Feeling fine is just fine, if you ask me.
I’d love to hear your thoughts, and even if you have a different perspective. All opinions are welcome here. In the meantime, here’s to celebrating the absence of pain and struggle, and giving mindful acknowledgment as those moments present themselves. Wishing you all the best in your wellness journey.
Namaste.
