Comments on Aftershock. What You Can't See In The Moment

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Brushing it all off

An old friend of mine used to say that when things got to be too much, it was best to brush them all off. He would physically brush himself off then, as though trying to wipe dust from his clothing. It was his way of ridding himself of burdens. I always thought it was neat, that physical expression of self-cleansing.

I prefer to write away my problems, pouring them onto the page and leaving them there. Whether it's a journal entry, a post on blogit, or a chapter in a novel--it's important to get it all out.

Sometimes, when I have a particularly bad day, I'll grab a sheet of paper, make a list of everything I hate about myself, my life, or my circumstances, and then burn it (I take it outside first, or put it in the sink so I don't burn the house down!). It's very satisfying to watch all my problems go up in smoke.

posted by Sira890 on February 18, 2008 at 2:21 PM | link to this | reply

I like your tabloid teaser closing, Azur. Wonderful and best wishes.

posted by benzinha on February 18, 2008 at 1:09 PM | link to this | reply

Azur
I look forward to 'later,' Azur.   I have some books beside my bed about a fellow countryman who emigrated.  A friend gave me them, thinking they might help me.  I am scared to open them in case there is seepage or I discover that I am wasting my time.

posted by johnmacnab on February 17, 2008 at 6:13 AM | link to this | reply

I love your writing. Threads here and there keep working through. :)pat

posted by Pat_B on February 16, 2008 at 12:42 PM | link to this | reply

That is so good for your writing to have that unofficial deadline. You have an exceptional friend!  sam

posted by sam444 on February 16, 2008 at 11:50 AM | link to this | reply

I'm glad to hear about your friend
Don't forget to get rest whenever it's available, though it sounds like that's few and far between.  Sometimes we just don't want to be alone with our thoughts.  I know what that's like.  Re-creation helps creation.  Take care, my friend.

posted by CunningLinguist on February 16, 2008 at 10:25 AM | link to this | reply