It may take years to realize, but one does not have to do everything one is asked to do. Many opportunities arise. Many elicit excitement upon being perused. It is in the moment of arousal that great risk emerges, side by side with great opportunity. This moment, a sort of crisis in its own way, demands discernment. Appraisals fill the mind. Does this concern me? Can I do this well? The answer to these questions may well be “yes,” but still more discernment is required. Mindfully, one must remember that just because one might be able to do something well, one still has the option to not do that action, even if it IS important to do. It is worth repeating: Just because you CAN do something doesn’t mean you MUST do something. Many stress related illnesses and deaths may have been avoided had this simple truth been heeded.
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A Simple Truth
James M. Walsh Pastoral Counseling 
4 replies on “A Simple Truth”
You have noted very interesting points! ps nice site.
Sometimes you do have to just say “no” if someone were to ask you to do something. Like you said, you may be able and capable, but perhaps you don’t want to, perhaps you need time to yourself to unwind, relax, meditate, cook, etc. There’s nothing wrong with putting ourselves first, and I know a lot of people forget that. Thanks for this!
You’re welcome. As much as I practice mindful awareness and acceptance, I still find myself getting pulled into the whirlwind of activity and, before I know it, getting stressed out. It’s good to remind ourselves now and then that “no” is OK!
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