Talking with Lorraine
Making mistakes
 I recently read the following advertisement and although it made me smile it also set me thinking — ’For sale, sleeveless wedding gown, off-white, size 8, veil included. Worn once, by mistake’.
How often do we berate ourselves and spiral into negativity and fear when we make a mistake? As he left office, one of the questions George Bush was asked was “With hindsight do you think you made any mistakes?”. Watching him duck and dive to avoid a straightforward answer was painful in the extreme.
Is it because our self-esteem is so low we don’t have the courage or ability to say “I’ve goofed and I am sorry”? We are told To err is Human, to forgive Divine. Are we scared we won’t be forgiven? Can we forgive ourselves? What is the payoff for staying stuck in fear and negativity? Apart from ill health and depression, not stepping up can take a heavy toll on our loved ones. Vulnerability and accountability are very attractive qualities, and can regenerate and energise relationships.
I never thought I would live to see an African American become president of the most powerful nation in the world. It is a nation that has been disconnected from the world and each other due to many things, some of them being negativity, fear and despair.
Now at a time in the world’s history when there is some validity for feeling fearful in light of the economic cartwheels that are happening daily, a miracle happens and Americans have shown the world who they really are. This election has not only connected America with the world but shown what an incredible race of people they are. It has given them hope, energy, enthusiasm, pride and joy. One of the things that could bring this undone, I believe, is fear and negativity. If Barrack Obama can keep fostering this positive energy he has ignited, I think America will find a way out of this economic crisis sooner rather than later. Americans are a very creative, dynamic and hard working race of people. If the President makes mistakes, and being human he will, it is to be hoped he will be honest, real and above all truthful.
For some of us there is little doubt that 2009 is going to present challenges on many levels. If we remember where fear and its friend negativity lead us, and take steps to banish them, we are more likely to have a great year. One of the promises of Twelve-Step programs is ‘That fear and negativity will leave us’.
The truth is very powerful and has a spiritual quality that is healing. The truth shall set you free, but first it will p*** you off. Remembering that statement when we err can help us to be kind to ourselves, foster mental discipline, and live in love, light and laughter—a much healthier and happier alternative, don’t you agree?
I wish a happy, prosperous, joyous and above all positive year to you all.
Lorraine
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