Overcoming Obstacles

Do you create obstacles?

I know that I do, especially when I don’t like something, when I’m uncertain or afraid to step out of my comfort zone.  In those times it’s easy to list everything that’s wrong and make an impressive argument in my own favor. 

But when I really want something it doesn’t matter how difficult or unlikely the chances of success are.  I’m willing to take a risk because I dream of the possibilities.

This last week in the news I observed a lot examples of those who see only obstacles and of those who see possibilities.  It seems when bold thinking is required people separate into two camps.  Those who cling to sometimes failed methods, citing the obstacles as the rationale for maintaining the status quo, and those who accept risk believing in the possibility of change for a better way.   These two positions rarely find common ground. 

I compared this to my own thinking when presented with a challenge.  The camp I join depends on whether I’m willing to let go or to hold on.  

“Dream nothing,” the Dalai Lama says.  When we make this radical change in thinking the power that lies nowhere but in ourselves becomes more apparent.  We can’t change the world, only the way we look at it.  So some us will always see obstacles and some will see magic.  But the truth is, neither one matters. 

The Buddha once famously said, “If an arrow is sticking out of your side you don’t argue about where it came from or who made, you just pull it out.”  Likewise the path to happiness is simply finding the cause of your suffering and attending to it.  Like pulling out the arrow. 

Pulling out the arrow is identifying what we can do better now.  

I can’t think of a faster way to getting on the path of recovery than by just doing something better now.  And there’s a lot that needs to be recovered. 

Creative World Connection wants to be your schools resource for finding that path and connecting with your staff and students. Imagine CWC as a compass to help you navigate.   Our website is getting a makeover.  In September we are offering the only education weekly newsletter dedicated to promoting character and personal growth.   Each week you will receive five special messages to share with your school community in your morning announcements or greeting.  In addition you will receive the most current information on ways to develop and grow your professional learning community.  If you are interested in a free trail subscription click on the link Contact Us and send an e-mail.