Beyond listening to Alan Watts, I haven't studied Taoism. But I write about the Drama Triangle and the fact that you can't change other people's minds (no matter how much "evidence" you give them. People have motivated reasons to not agree. Some people just want to yell. I would have likely rode on past as well. Thanks for the beautifully written article and reminder.
Yes, I totally agree with the theme of your book and would be interested in exploring it with you for a potential feature piece. Would you be kind enough to send me a DM if you are open to discussing? — Diamond-Michael
I’ve been struggling with my communication lately, getting anxiety when I speak up. Getting flustered when I’m forced to give an opinion. I’ve been really interested in Buddhism & Taoism for some time. Do you have any place for me to start? recommendations, I mean. books etc?
Oh, man, I wish I had a nickel for every time I have said this to myself: "When is it worth engaging, and when is silence the most powerful response? " I have most often opted for silence but far from always. Choosing wisely with good intentions helps. Engaging doesn't have to accelerate confrontation and instead may offer a peaceful resolution of understanding and appreciation. I can imagine myself shouting back, "THANK YOU!" and then ignoring the bike lane. Many of them are dangerous race tracks. Practical wisdom is what that is. Maybe the guy had good intentions for your safety but that would require a longer conversation. Cheers to you my fellow former Buckeye.
I still find myself triggered from time to time by a comment on social media and want to respond. So I’ll write this long refrain, only to think better of it at the end and erase it. Because at the end of the day it’s just ain’t worth it.
As the years go on I care ever less about right, wrong, fair, unfair adjectives, often an irrelevant framing, but what action/inaction will be the less stressful. Stress is the quiet killer. Good for you in your choice.
Beyond listening to Alan Watts, I haven't studied Taoism. But I write about the Drama Triangle and the fact that you can't change other people's minds (no matter how much "evidence" you give them. People have motivated reasons to not agree. Some people just want to yell. I would have likely rode on past as well. Thanks for the beautifully written article and reminder.
Thanks Barbara.
Yes, I totally agree with the theme of your book and would be interested in exploring it with you for a potential feature piece. Would you be kind enough to send me a DM if you are open to discussing? — Diamond-Michael
I sent you a DM. But I meant that I write on Substack about it. Though, you now have me thinking about writing a book on it. Thanks.
I’ve been struggling with my communication lately, getting anxiety when I speak up. Getting flustered when I’m forced to give an opinion. I’ve been really interested in Buddhism & Taoism for some time. Do you have any place for me to start? recommendations, I mean. books etc?
Happy to chat with you anytime. Feel free to send me a DM here on Substack at your convenience.
With respect to your question, here are three books that I highly recommend as a great place to start
1. Tao Te Ching by Stephen Mitchell
2. The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff
3. Black and Buddhist by Pamela Ayn Yetunde and Cheryl A. Giles
thank you so much! i will reach out after reading a bit
Oh, man, I wish I had a nickel for every time I have said this to myself: "When is it worth engaging, and when is silence the most powerful response? " I have most often opted for silence but far from always. Choosing wisely with good intentions helps. Engaging doesn't have to accelerate confrontation and instead may offer a peaceful resolution of understanding and appreciation. I can imagine myself shouting back, "THANK YOU!" and then ignoring the bike lane. Many of them are dangerous race tracks. Practical wisdom is what that is. Maybe the guy had good intentions for your safety but that would require a longer conversation. Cheers to you my fellow former Buckeye.
Hey Gary.
That’s it. That’s the way.
I still find myself triggered from time to time by a comment on social media and want to respond. So I’ll write this long refrain, only to think better of it at the end and erase it. Because at the end of the day it’s just ain’t worth it.
For sure! Don't waste time, thoughts or words that won't work. Good to know those triggers and recognize them for what they are.
As the years go on I care ever less about right, wrong, fair, unfair adjectives, often an irrelevant framing, but what action/inaction will be the less stressful. Stress is the quiet killer. Good for you in your choice.