We so often take our lives so seriously, so personally. But how seriously or personally do we healthily want to take our lives? What might an Emo say? What might a sociopath say? Is the healthy stance somewhere between the two?

You may find yourself dealing with challenges so beyond your control that all you can do is survive them on a day by day, month by month or year by year basis. In that case will it do you much good to take yourself and your life too seriously, too personally? Or is a practical, strategic approach going to give you your best chance.

According to Wikipedia:

A game is structured playing, usually undertaken for enjoyment and sometimes used as an educational tool. Key components of games are goals, rules, challenge, and interaction. Games generally involve mental or physical stimulation, and often both. Many games help develop practical skills, serve as a form of exercise, or otherwise perform an educational, simulational, or psychological role.

(from Wikipedia)

By that definition, perhaps, there are times much of life resembles a game. And we can play that personally and seriously if we wish, or enjoy the processes with which we adapt to the challenges that come our way. Perhaps that’s what life actually is… not whether you win or lose but how you play the game.

The attached art work captured this for me. One of the figures helps the latter one up to the next step in their journey, behind them are a series of puzzle pieces. We are not meant to solve everything or have all the answers. It’s ok to choose our battles.

Donna Williams, BA Hons, Dip Ed.
Author, artist, singer-songwriter, screenwriter.
Autism consultant and public speaker.
http://www.donnawilliams.net

I acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Owners of this country throughout Australia, and their connection to land and community.