Relationship of her dreams creates fears, too
You live in New Orleans (lucky you!), and so I suggest that you pick up your ukulele and join one of the many free jam sessions that spring up around the city. Music will open you up.
For an introductory guide to a daily meditation practice, read "How to Meditate: A Practical Guide to Making Friends with Your Mind," by the wonderful Buddhist sage Pema Chodron (2013, Sounds True). With gentle good humor, Chodron lovingly leads the reader toward a beginner's meditation practice.
Your fearful thoughts will still enter your mind. But meditation can teach you to open a window -- and let these thoughts merely pass through.
Dear Amy: This may sound silly, but my 50th high school reunion is approaching fast. One of the people who will attend is the "mean kid" who tormented me.
I can't tell you how many times he would follow me in the hall, yelling, "HEY, UGLY! YOU'RE SO UGLY YOU SHOULD KILL YOURSELF!"
According to people who still know him, he has spent the intervening years honing his witty repartee.
I've had a long and happy marriage (he's been married/divorced four times), a wonderful family, and a great career (research chemist). I have no idea why it still bothers me. Why does it still hurt?
I do not want him to control my behavior. I've thought carefully about how to react if I see him. I've decided I won't remember him. I'm also prepared to leave quickly if I decide I want to. I understand that he's either a sad, unhappy person or just a nasty jerk, either way, I have my husband and children.
I love your thoughtful advice.
-- Hurting
...continued
