We, more than any other species are more beholden to our erratic and ever changing neurochemistry. I have been trying to objectively observe my brain’s relationship to my day, which, seems to predictably shift. I can awaken some mornings with the awareness that: “I am so confident that I can conquer the world.” Or I am so fragile that: “I need to guard every interaction because it could be the difference between connection or isolation.” Adequate sleep, nutrition and social connections make a remarkable difference to our well being. I realize that sounds a bit simplistic, but I think that any responsible person wants to understand and engage with understanding and connection. Am I wrong? I also believe that the way we live with technology has changed the way we connect. It deserves some dramatic reckoning or contemplation. Our brains were wired to process our environment, but not in the manner that they have been taxed. Our brains are littered with superfluous information.
Our brains, are still processing as hunter/gatherers. This means that we are in an evolutionary transition of trying to figure out what requires our immediate attention to survive versus that which is just simply, minutia. I have realized, that I am not cut out for minutia. I would rather respond and engage in person. I understand that I am a frustrating person with which to connect. My realm of who has chosen to engage this way has reduced, dramatically. I am OK with this. I didn’t say I am GREAT, Supercalifragilistic, or fine with this, I just sadly realize that I am a minority traveling this path. In order to preserve my sense of self I need to be OK. Not ecstatically happy or thumbs up with a GIANT SMILEY FACE. I am OK with a subtle dancing monkey. AND the monkey doesn’t need to be in full fledged break dancing moves. It can just be slowly dancing in place under a bright and radiant moon! BY ITSELF!
The bottom line is…we need each other! We are herd mammals whether we understand or embrace this. We are made of the same biochemistry as EVERY species on this planet. This is a time to connect, love and understand each other for what we are…..HUMAN. We just need to figure our place in the vast and beautiful galaxy with grace, humility and acceptance.
Amy- I’ve been reading every one of these posts, and have enjoyed this small window into you. I applaud you for your courage and kindness- I’ve wanted to connect with you on a friendship level for a long time..thought I had tried but maybe I wasn’t clear about that? In any case, let’s find a time where I can treat you, maybe to lunch or a walk? Or just a chat by the fire?
Gail