A friend sent a playful scenario about the choices we have. When faced with Something, let's call it IT, we have a spectrum of possible responses. We can notice it, or ignore it, cover it up or get rid of it. Maybe we will tell a story about it, or exaggerate it. Perhaps we will judge it, or change it, repeat it or be kind to it. 

The interesting part comes when I plug things in, for example, the fact that many people have gone to warmer climes this week and we are staying home. How will I elect to respond to this tidbit of reality? Judging comes without effort, as does exaggerating. Or I can let myself tell a story about it.

The days are like a blank journal, open to new sewing projects, reorganizing the house, hours outside with the chickens and a trip to visit Grandma.

That kind of story makes it lovable. 

Another IT could be a recurring conflict in marriage. I can embellish it, hide it, give it some space or play with it.  There was a task I wanted John to do and I noticed the way I projected heaviness onto it. I stewed about it for part of a day, composing comebacks about why he needed to do it. 

Then I realized he had already done it. 

When I am duped into believing there is only one option, I am more imprisoned than the canary in a cage who has not yet noticed that the door is wide open.