Humans Have Some Strange Instincts
I can remember as a kid wanting to poke a hornet’s nest. What the heck is that all about?
And it’s not just hornets. I remember the first rattle snake I ever saw. Someone had to tell me to put the stick down that I was about to poke it with.
Same goes with alligators I’ve been close to. I wanted to do something to get a reaction out of them too (though I used my better judgment then).
This Does Not Seem Like Intelligent Behavior
In fact, it’s not.
But that doesn’t stop us humans. Or at least me from wanting to do something stupid.
And I do the same thing with people. If someone I love gets angry, that same urge to prod them comes up. What the heck?!
It Happened to Me Recently
My partner got upset about something but was kind of quiet about it. My old way would have been to drag him into “discussing” it. But when I thought about it, there was nothing to discuss.
The only reason I had for “discussing” was to try to get him to admit that he was wrong. When I saw what I was wanting, I dropped it completely and let him go about his business.
Sometimes it’s just kinder for all involved to let things be without inciting them to riot.
I Don’t Know Where It Comes From
All I know is that this tendency to poke and prod to get some kind of a reaction does not increase my peace of mind.
I’m glad at least that I’m starting to become aware of my crazy desires, and to question them.
Monday, September 15th at 9 AM my new book will be ready. Get ready to take advantage of the introductory price of $37 for the first week only (starting Sep. 15). After one week the price will go to $47.
Have a great weekend,
Todd
“Just notice when things are out of balance. You don’t have to figure it out. There’s a built-in signal that will always let you know: it’s called stress.” — Byron Katie, A Thousand Names for Joy p. 155.
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