Summary: One thing we cover in writing class is that in order to build strong characters, they must be complex, believable and, sometimes, the slightest bit unbelievable too. Good characters, we learn, must also do things out of character on occasion. Maybe that means they make a big purchase, love the wrong people, or pursue exactly the wrong thing for reasons at first unknown. I'm talking about fictional characters, but the same holds true for us real ones too. Nowhere has this been more evident than in the past three days. Since Monday I've seen and heard tell of people making outrageous decisions, going MIA, and behaving badly without the slightest concern for consequences. And I am no exception, honey. My astrology-minded friends might say I'm responding to the influence of Mercury in retrograde, which is known for throwing its wrenches into our best laid plans and clear communications. To spare us all a drawn out story, let me give you the highlights: there was a thing I didn't really want to do, but I said I would because I was available and why not. Rather than say no, I went against my gut, rallied for the cause and forged ahead anyway. The day that thing I'd committed to came around, I woke up late, got stuck in traffic, played phone tag for an hour, and wound up going home. I also got a $50 ticket for parking on the wrong side of the street! When I finally caught up with the people by phone and explained myself, I'd arrived at the courage to say no, apologize, and take my lumps as needed. The experience felt yucky because I don't much care for that mealy mouth sound of indecision. I also pride myself on being reliable. Well. So, what's the lesson here? Among other things, it's to trust the intelligence of our own minds and bodies when they repeatedly tell us no; to honor what's right for you—from the start—in order to avoid greater complications down the line. And if you just can't get it together until the eleventh hour, be willing to look like the ass if you have to. Our communications will be messy sometimes. We may fail and sputter along the way, but it's all part of the path to wherever we're going. It won't do us any good to push away the discomfort of our decisions—or indecision—because when we do, we reject the lesson that's wrapped inside the fiasco. And that alone can be costly. Today, celestial upheaval aside, let's do ourselves the favor of honoring the gritty truth—especially those which might cause us some discomfort. Trust me, this is the act that builds real character and aligns us to the best that's in us! - - - - - - - You might also like: Dummies and the Real Deal False Awakenings Freedom: What’s it to you?
