I have been introduced to this concept before in a book of stoic philosophy called The Obstacle is The Way by Ryan Holiday who emphasizes the difference between the observation of an event and the perception of an event. The separation of the two is described very well in the Small Door essay. It is the difference between “This is a tour. This is happening.” vs “This tour is not what I expected. This tour sucks!”
I read this book to help me deal with my cancer diagnosis in 2025, and it helped me reframe “This is the worst thing that has ever happened to me!” to “This thing happened. What should I do next?” And there was a lot of Ma happening before figuring out what to do next. I did a lot of talking to people, journaling, and thinking.
Thank you for the reminder to take the time to consider my own thoughts, as uncomfortable as they may be. Sometimes I avoid them with distractions, but being aware of distractions is a part of the journey, and I know I have a long way to go.
Thank you Gira for your thoughtful response. I will check out the Obstacle is the way. And also tuning into distractions as part of the journey. There are many we justify and feel are a priority. I still believe space/ma brings a vital rhythm that is sense making beyond any distraction. Happy Sunday
I have been introduced to this concept before in a book of stoic philosophy called The Obstacle is The Way by Ryan Holiday who emphasizes the difference between the observation of an event and the perception of an event. The separation of the two is described very well in the Small Door essay. It is the difference between “This is a tour. This is happening.” vs “This tour is not what I expected. This tour sucks!”
I read this book to help me deal with my cancer diagnosis in 2025, and it helped me reframe “This is the worst thing that has ever happened to me!” to “This thing happened. What should I do next?” And there was a lot of Ma happening before figuring out what to do next. I did a lot of talking to people, journaling, and thinking.
Thank you for the reminder to take the time to consider my own thoughts, as uncomfortable as they may be. Sometimes I avoid them with distractions, but being aware of distractions is a part of the journey, and I know I have a long way to go.
Thank you Gira for your thoughtful response. I will check out the Obstacle is the way. And also tuning into distractions as part of the journey. There are many we justify and feel are a priority. I still believe space/ma brings a vital rhythm that is sense making beyond any distraction. Happy Sunday
Hope! You inspire me yet again! So much peace of mind comes from your wisdom. Please keep sharing! I’m obsessed with your voice!
Love this! And often wonder if people actually listen to my voice. Your share is so beautiful. I'll keep voicing even if it's only for you:)