This is a tough lesson. It seems so simple. But when you’re worried about something, it’s often hard to get out of that vortex.
“Do not anticipate trouble, or worry about what may never happen. Keep in the sunlight.” Benjamin Franklin
I don’t know what I like best about this Benjamin Franklin quote. Maybe I identify with all the words–
Trouble, worry, happen, sunlight.
Maybe I know that I am guilty. I have been known to worry too much. I anticipate trouble sometimes. Given a situation, my mind can run amuck, thinking of all the possible problems and scenarios that may come to pass.
In my defense –I’m a mom of five, wife to one entrepreneur. Once you step into those “careers,” you’re bound to have reasons to worry. I have a simple request of my kids and husband –“just text me and let me know you’re ok.” The cell phone has been a blessing for me. I can’t believe I raised my first two kids without one.
And some of my worries seem valid.
Yet, I know I’m not supposed to worry. I believe words have power. We have all heard about the power of positive thinking. I’ve used the technique where first you imagine or see yourself accomplishing a task; then, you go forward. The reverse of this should be avoided —“do not anticipate trouble.” If you anticipate trouble, you may be setting yourself up for trouble. It’s good to take precautions in every situation–wear the bike helmet when you’re mountain biking, but don’t anticipate falling on your head. Imagine yourself successfully navigating the road.
I’ve heard that most of the things we worry about never happen. So, good advice, Benjamin Franklin, “do not worry about what may never happen.” Of course, if you have valid worries, it’s best to make a list and take action. If no action can be taken, then it is best to let it go.
I do identify with “Keep in the Sunlight.”
Gloomy days, with fog and no sunlight, impact my outlook, and even seems to impact my output. After three days of cloud living in the fog up here in Northern Cal, I begin to go crazy. I crave the sunshine. One day I drove up the mountain to get to the sun. And it made me smile. And feel better.
The sun is an excellent metaphor for happiness. The sun is always smiling. Keep in the sunlight; keep a smile on your face. Look on the bright side. This is a “bright idea.”
And of course, from a spiritual side, the sun is symbolic of truth and light, God and Christ. All living things on this planet would die without the sun. True, the sun can also destroy with heat. But let’s not go there right now.
Stay in the light, have faith, and don’t wander into the shadows. It’s easier to see where to go when you have light. Seek the truth, seek the light, and don’t worry.
