“Imagine that…the external source of your suffering is a large, living container in which you are held captive. But this container is moving, getting somewhere, taking you where you need to go.”

I hope you can trust yourself to know that even though there may not be visible signs of progress, you most certainly are headed somewhere.

Make the map up as you go….

Ambiguity is part of life. It doesn’t lessen. Those who see the world as more black and white seem to live with less ambiguity. I wouldn’t choose it, and it isn’t in my nature. It would surprise me if that kind of (blind?) certainty were in yours.

There is no need to have one and only one direction. There is nothing wrong with changing directions. And while there is something terrifying in being on the brink of whatever comes next – unsure what that is – it’s also breathtaking when you have so much capacity (as you do) to pursue it. Whatever “it” may be, let yourself ease into it, give it some steam and slack. You will find it; it will find you.

Many years ago, when I was trying to decide about something significant (to me), weighing the possible risks and rewards, someone said to me: “What is the worst possible thing that could happen? If you don’t succeed, will you die?”

My answer: “No.”

Then: “So what is the worst possible thing that could happen?”

I remember having to think about that. I realized that I would be disappointed in myself, and feel lousy for awhile, then try a new approach, or try again later, or try something else.

I’ve never forgotten those words – What’s the worst that could happen?

And I call upon them, regularly, when at crossroads of many sorts. I assess, and either take a step or a leap accordingly. I’ve failed at some things. I’ve succeeded at others. That “worst” – by giving it form beforehand – took some of the fear away. Not all, but some.

Have the faith that you can do it, because you can.