The Chief

You got a problem with that?  Take it up with the cat.

                    Duane Brewster

Sometimes what causes us the greatest grief is the absence of boundaries in our life.    Duane Brewster's humorous comment "Take it up with the cat" is a delightful reminder NOT to feel responsible for everyone else.  

WE are the only ones we are responsible for and, when we  "usurp" other's roles, we mess with our peace of mind and the peace of others.  I know "usurp" is a big word to use here.  After all, you may be thinking,  "I am only trying to help."  But this particular job doesn't have our name on it.  

WE are not responsible for fixing someone else's problem.  It's their responsibility and their privilege (to help them in their own evolution).  We can hold space for someone while they work through an issue, make suggestions if asked and express our faith that the individual will find the heart-answer, but we don't OWN the problem and are, therefore, not responsible for the solution.  And trying to make things better ourselves tends to communicate the feeling to someone of "I'm not sure you can figure it out."

We all have a real (or metaphorical) list of things we would like to do for Christmas.  In case you are trying to solve someone's holiday issues, consider sending them a prayer, acknowledging your faith in their ability to navigate the challenge, encouraging and applauding their efforts and, then, leave the heavy lifting to the cat.  : )

                                         Marie Helena

image:

Cheshire Cat by Manuela Lai Alice in Wonderland Tattoo Framed Fine Art Print