#85 Rejection is divine redirection

Hi all,

I want to start again this week with a thank you; I really appreciate all your messages in response to the last two editions. They’ve been a bit different in tone and content, and this is something you will now see more of as Plane Thoughts evolves going forward.

Whilst providing one easily implementable idea per week is the core aim, there will be weeks where I may share reflections, interesting quotes and conversations that have influenced my thinking and actions. Today is one such edition. Two quotes have really got me thinking:

1. “Put your ear down close to your soul and listen hard.” - Anne Sexton

I came across this in the book ‘Reasons to Live’ by Matt Haig, which is a first-person account of dealing with depression. The quote really resonated with me, as I’m presently spending a lot of time introspecting around my deepest thoughts and feelings, looking back over the story of my life so far.

As we run about through our day-to-day lives, how much time do we dedicate to really understanding how we think and feel about things below the surface level? For men in particular, I think the answer is commonly, ‘not quite enough time’.

I believe that most of the answers that we seek in our lives are already there within us, but we don’t always slow down and listen enough to ourselves to find them.

When was the last check-in with your soul?

2. “Rejection is divine redirection.”

My most interesting conversation of the week was over dinner in Geneva, around this same theme of ‘know thyself’. We were discussing the importance of positive thinking when overcoming setbacks, when this second quote was said.

I thought it was a beautiful use of words. But, they are words that I am conflicted by, because I know how important framing is in the face of challenges; but it infers a worldview which I don’t hold.

Many people find solace in the belief that everything happens for a reason when going through tough times. That can be through the hand of god, destiny or some other power or energy.

I personally struggle with the view that things are written out for us, that the universe is guiding us through struggles to get to better outcomes. I believe that we alone are the authors of our lives.

What’s your view? Join the conversation; I read and reply to each and every comment.

— AJ

On my bedside table:

📖 Non-fiction: Things No One Taught Us About Love by Vex King

I am reading a physical copy and listening to the audiobook, and enjoying this mixed approach to content consumption.

🎬 Video: How To Slow Down Time - The Holiday Paradox by Ali Abdaal

1. Anchors of Novelty, 2. Anchors of Reflection, 3. Anchors of Mindfulness

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Thank you!