Stress and Vulnerability

Describes my life today,
not every day but
especially this one.

It happens when the day's expectations
must be set aside
to accommodate what is.

And we miss the landing approach
while carrying the weight of disappointment
on our shoulders,
or letting it rule our mind.

I exaggerate.

As one does in the face of change,
which is how the twin forces of
Stress and Vulnerability create rifts
in how we are able to meet what comes

When what we feel inside is the energy
of trying to stop them,
trying to stay our course and find relief.

If they seem stuck in your mind space
or somewhere in your gut,
invite them to step aside for now.
You can check in with them later.

These are parts of you,
not invaders bent on taking over
but voices that may be understood
for the purpose they serve.

They are not the whole of you.

2 Comments

Filed under Prose and Poetry

2 Responses to Stress and Vulnerability

  1. Keith Voos

    Thank you, Carol, for another lovely statement of wisdom. I appreciate that underlying it is the Buddhist admonishment of accepting what is, as hard as they may be at times.

  2. I love your insight that the internal voices of stress so many of us are feeling these days are “parts of you, not invaders bent on taking over.” A very helpful realization as we try to maintain a sense of equilibrium in these increasingly challenging days. Thanks, Carol.

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