Posts Tagged: discontent

“Bullied by a Gang of Thoughts”

I am just starting my “3-Minute Retreat” from Loyola Publishing. Today, as with many days, the retreat starts out with an admonition to let go of any distracting thoughts. I am not sure if I am holding on to such thoughts or if they are holding on to me. I have a lot of clingy thoughts.

Well, I should be mature enough to do this. I am in charge of my thoughts. I am bigger and meaner and more determined than they are. I refuse to be bullied by a gang of nasty, useless thoughts!

And what are the names of these gang members? Regret, Resentment, Guilt, Fear, A-Sense-Of-Worthlessness, Desire-For-More (and his twin brother Discontent).

So, I decide that, today, I’m going to stand up to these bullies. I say, to Regret (who seems to be their spokesman), “You little boys, run along. I’m moving forward, and if you try to stop me or follow me, I will hurt you.”

And so, I walk on. I look around and they are gone.

Huh! It works! I think I’ll get on with my day. Maybe you could too.

Three practical suggestions:

  1. Name the thoughts that are bullying you.
  2. Tell them to shove off.
  3. Walk in the direction of the next right thing to do.
Follow on Feedly