In the symphony of human experience, language resonates as a powerful and intricate melody, harmonizing our emotions, thoughts, and identities. Language isn’t just a medium of communication; it’s my lifeline to the world. My physical limitations mean that spoken and written words are my exclusive means of expressing myself. This unique perspective has deepened my appreciation for the beauty and complexity of language, transforming everyday interactions into opportunities for introspection and growth.
Recently, a simple yet profound interaction with Adrienne Carter, my mindset coach from Primed Mind, sparked a cascade of reflections. Adrienne posed a question we’ve all heard countless times: “How are you?” This time, however, it struck a different chord. It wasn’t the words themselves but the realization they triggered about the nature of life and my understanding of it.
Adrienne has played a pivotal role in this moment of clarity. She’s been instrumental in helping me navigate the challenges of the pandemic and personal upheavals, equipping me with invaluable mechanisms of self-assuredness and newfound confidence. Yet, it was her simple inquiry that unveiled a deeper truth: the inherent complexity of life is not an anomaly but the norm.
Why did this realization about the complexity of life strike me so profoundly at that moment? It’s challenging to pinpoint a single reason, but it boils down to this fundamental understanding: I have finally realized that complexity is the normal and not outlier of life.
Embracing complexity is not just accepting life’s multifaceted nature; it’s about celebrating it.
For too long, I, like many, viewed life’s complexities as hurdles, believing that uncertainty or conflicting emotions were signs of inadequacy or confusion. But recognizing that complexity is the default state of human existence has been liberating. It has allowed me to give myself permission to experience a range of emotions without the need for immediate clarity or resolution.
This shift in perspective has been nothing short of transformative. It has enabled me to approach relationships, societal interactions, and personal challenges with a renewed sense of openness and understanding. Embracing the nuances and intricacies of life, much like those in language, has granted me a sense of peace and freedom akin to Nirvana.
As a person who relies heavily on language to express myself, understanding this has changed not only how I communicate but also how I perceive and interact with the world. Each conversation, each written word, becomes a reflection of life’s complexities. Moreover, this realization has profound implications for how we all interact with each other. Recognizing the complexity in others fosters empathy, patience, and a deeper connection. It encourages us to look beyond the surface to understand that every individual is a confluence of various experiences, emotions, and thoughts. This understanding is particularly vital in today’s fast-paced, often superficial world, where genuine connections can sometimes feel elusive.
The way I respond to “How are you?” is no longer a reflexive, surface-level reply. It’s an opportunity to genuinely express my state of being, embracing the myriad emotions and thoughts that define my current reality. And I’m no longer asking, “How are you?” as a throw-away conversation starter. I find myself eager to have a deep conversation that moves beyond the basic “I’m fine” response.
In essence, the journey to embracing life’s complexities is a continuous process of learning, unlearning, and relearning. It involves breaking down preconceived notions, challenging our own biases, and continuously seeking a deeper understanding of ourselves and those around us. It’s about finding beauty in ambiguity, strength in vulnerability, and clarity in uncertainty.
As 2023 comes to an end, I can’t help but reflect and be grateful for the role language plays in my life. It’s not just a tool for communication but a bridge to understanding the complexities of human existence and the world around me. It’s a doorway to exploring the soulful symphony of human emotions and experiences. It’s an invitation to share, to connect, and to embrace the beautiful complexity of life. And for this newfound perspective, I am profoundly thankful.
I’d like to make this blog a bit more interactive, so I’ve created a Google Form that lets anyone send in questions or topics they would like me to explore. You can even submit anonymously, if you wish.
Tell me what you want me to write about. Nothing is off-limits, but I don’t guarantee I will create a post based on your input.