When the sun disappears beneath the horizon, casting its warmth upon distant lands, and the moon playfully reveals itself behind the trees, a mischievous little gremlin awakens from hidden crevices. This creature, an untamed and spirited beast, possesses an insatiable appetite and, if left to its own devices, would indulge until sunrise, risking a sugar-induced coma. The irony is that this creature resides in me, an ever-present companion with an insatiable sweet tooth and no concern of diabetes.
No sweet tooth tyrant, no more!
Reading “Los Cuatro Acuerdos” (The Four Agreements) was initially intended as an enjoyable practice of reading Spanish. Little did I know that it would introduce such powerful ideas that have become guiding principles during challenging moments in my counseling sessions. One such instance involved a client going through a divorce, who was grappling with fear tactics employed by their ex-spouse. Offering reassurance, I told them, “You both came up with a fair deal. The numbers speak for themselves, and it is fair. The use of intimidation is simply their using delusion, and if you respond to it, you will inadvertently validate their delusional state.”
My client found solace in this perspective but expressed concerns about the possibility of their ex-spouse stalling indefinitely. In response, I encouraged them by saying, “If you remain steadfast in your commitment to what is fair, refusing to waver, you only need that one pivotal moment when they let go of their delusion and that’s when they’ll sign the agreement.”
I genuinely hope they reach a resolution soon, moving forward would be best for them both.
Speaking of moving forward, I recently worked with a younger client who was consumed by the fear of letting go of their ex, despite the evident negative consequences of holding on. I helped them recognize that moving forward “doesn’t mean you abandon everything. It means that you release yourself from the dysfunctional aspects and create space for healthier growth.”
As you can see, work is at the forefront of my mind, and without Dave here to share my epiphanies, they’re yours for the having, hot off the press.
Archie, our dog, almost had a moment of triumph as he chased a bunny in the middle of a field. Just kidding. He didn’t come close. However, whenever he pricks up his ears, stealthily descends the steps, and dashes away with lightning speed, you would think he’s embarking on a mission to provide a meal for the entire family. But alas, he excels in snuggling, not hunting.
Dave has just returned home, and we’re discussing our plans for the upcoming weekend. Tomorrow, we’ll be completing the shiplap project, Saturday is almost 5-year-old Evie’s birthday, and it coincides with our neighbor Chuck’s mom’s birthday. Following that, we’ll head to the cabin for a couple days. Although it may seem like a packed schedule, I promise to carve out some much-needed downtime.
Thank you for lending an ear, and I look forward to connecting with you here again tomorrow.
Love, Jaclynn
Going On 40 