I’d have sworn I’ve used this book more than once on this site, but I could find only one instance back in September of 2019, which was of course before the world went into lockdown. I didn’t realize in those months of 2020, when my life altered so much (as did most people’s, worldwide), how an old companion of mine, Anxiety, came to stay. Even now, though I don’t navigate through the world quite the way I used to, I grapple with anxiety every day and do at least one thing that scares me.
I like the concept of “shrinking the wolf.” On this site, when I share a personal story and photos, or a bit of fiction, or lines of poetry, or a painting, even a coloring page, or post a photo on the Photo Friday site, or express a political opinion, I’m shrinking the wolf.
When I’m out of my comfort zone and out in the world (grocery store, drug store, bank, doctor’s office, retailer–it’s a small world!), I look for and try to extend only kindness (caveat: you would not believe this if you’re a passenger in my car, but none of my muttering is heard by its deserving recipients, so I give myself a pass).
It’s always reassuring how much kindness I’m given when I’m out and about. Kindness inspires me.
Whatever your fear is, today or any day, I hope you can shrink that wolf.
ETA: I got this book/journal in February of 2015, so this is officially the THIRD time I’ve posted it. I need to use it more often.
