Stand Firm, Not Rigid

Try carrying out a routine which you have been doing at the same place, for the same duration of time, now at a different place, a different atmosphere but still keeping an equal amount of time. I have tried it and in a way, it creates a different effect, or feeling, if you may. To describe that difference would be pretty tricky as it really is a very subtle, almost insignificant difference. But as minor a change as it may be, it is actually very detectable.

When I realised that, my mind somehow created an immediate connection between the above situation and the way we think or perceive. I would liken both this way:

Routine act & Time = Our mindset
Location of carrying out routine act = The concept within our mindset

It is really an obvious analogy. When we do a certain activity for a certain period of time at a certain place, and then try to do it in a different location (even if that means only moving from one room to another room or having music on when it used to be that there was only silence), it is almost inevitable that there will arise a particular difference in the effect or feeling which we would get after the routine. Similarly, shifting the dominant concepts or ideas which are contained in our mindsets would definitely create a difference in the way we perceive and ultimately, in the way we feel about ourselves and the way we act.

Random thought: I am beginning to sound like a motivational speaker. But really, my intention is just to speak/post/type my thoughts (which were created this morning).

Just after typing the above sentence, I was interrupted by a man who checks the electricity meter and gives electricity bills (I call them simply as, the "electric men"). That short encounter itself has given me an extra point to support my thoughts. It is now noon here and the KL sun is perhaps laughing out a hearty one (a little too hearty, perhaps). Walking from house to house with a little calculating machine in hand, dressed in an all blue uniform, I don't suppose being an "electric man" is exactly exciting. But this man whom I just met a little while ago portrayed otherwise. Walking to the meter with a jovial hello, passing me the bill with a thankful welcome, moving on to the next house with a smile in his voice, humming loudly, I could sense not a hint of reluctance or boredom. I am not yet capable of deducing the activities in his mind but I am almost certain that the level of joy and sincerity he has in his job is empowered by the fact that he created himself to be so. Or rather, he allowed himself the space to create a mindset which would bring him happiness and enjoyment in life, regardless of circumstances. Needless to say, another little encounter I am happy to add into my bagpack of gratitude.=)

I myself have been a victim of a stubborn mind. There is a sense of false accomplishment that I obtain when I seemed to have successfully stood my ground. But I think the question is, by being so deeply rooted into the ground we are standing on, are we allowing ourselves to grow?

Exploration and creation in life (whether minor or major) can only truly begin when we free ourselves to explore and create flexibility in our minds, carrying our roots along.