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Andy Adler's avatar

Thank you for writing this John. A really good read and your ability to share and be vulnerable is an example we can all learn from.

Keep looking after yourself and know that the opportunity is around the corner.

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John Durrant's avatar

Thank you Andy, I really appreciate that.

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Johnnie Moore's avatar

First, solidarity, brother. I resonate with so much of your experience and I love how explicitly you are sharing it.

Second, this is a really terrific piece of analysis and a public service. There are people selling inferior versions of this wisdom for big money!

Among many things, the falling back on your systems is something I totally get now: well-established daily practices (in my case some blend of swimming/tai chi/yoga/walking each day) are a vital self-haven when shit hits the fan emotionally.

I would think that by bringing this level of awareness to your next work project (and may it come soon) you will shine.

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John Durrant's avatar

Thanks Johnnie...

Yes I think many people face difficult situations without the safety net of underlying systems, where the hitting the bottle or binging on junk food will provide temporary relief but ultimately prolong one's misery.

Yesterday I did 300 pushups followed by a 3 hour work and stuck to my no sugar, no junk food routines. The walk was interesting because instead of turning around and tracing my steps I searched for an alternative route home and found a new footpath that wasn't on the map. I've noticed there is value in the novelty of a new route - a fresh alertness in the mind as you pay more attention to things - your body thinks you're on a new adventure and seems to prepare itself for fresh surprises. It's a good way to change your mind.

I woke this morning in a slightly more optimistic mood.

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Johnnie Moore's avatar

I often find that it's small things that shift my mood, little reminders that we are in a living system (rather than the limited, fixed one that we seen when feeling down)

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Lisa Burns's avatar

Thank you John for sharing your experience and words of wisdom. I would like to share this quote with you ... “What is meant for you will not pass you by. Trust your journey. Keep going. Everything you need will come to you at a perfect time.”

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John Durrant's avatar

Thanks Lisa.

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Lisa Burns's avatar

Just to add... I have experienced similar disappointment a few years ago. I believe if our thoughts, words and actions are aligned, we can manifest what we want.

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James Bedford's avatar

So sorry to hear this John :(

Your words capture perfectly the unease and pain I felt when in a similar situation last year. It really is a harsh landscape out there right now.

I will be keeping my eye out for you. Please let me know if there is anything I can do.

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John Durrant's avatar

Thanks James, I appreciate that

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Oct 16, 2023
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John Durrant's avatar

Yes I've heard that one. There's a book by composer Robert Fritz, 'The Path of Least Resistance' which has a similar take about affirmations which stresses that it is impossible to lie to ourselves - the only affirmation is doing the actual thing.

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Oct 17, 2023
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John Durrant's avatar

Submission to the ordeal, symbolic death and rebirth - that's inspiring. Thank you Brian - your interests in symbolism and the dedication to researching the topic must be very rewarding.

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