As the lyrics go in the 1967 song “White Rabbit” performed by Grace Slick and recorded by Jefferson Airplane – “Remember what the dormouse said – feed your head – feed your head.” Those lyrics may mean different things to different people and nothing at all to some. I interpret the meaning to be about the kinds of thoughts I feed my head: thoughts that may lead to certain triggers and thoughts about what beliefs I choose to create that may, in turn, shift my perspective, either positively or negatively.
What choice do I have at that intersecting moment where I can choose to react or respond? I could react to my triggers and say or do something I may later regret, or I can take a breath, walk away, and choose to put some space between myself and my response. It is a very simple process in theory, and yet, for most, not easy.
On July 5, 2023, my husband and I received the phone call that no parent ever wants to receive. Our 40-year-old amazing, loving son had been in a motorcycle accident and did not survive. A word does not exist to describe what it is like to lose a child. And one year later as we continue to navigate through our grief, I know one thing for certain.
Amid life’s experiences, we have choices. We can choose to be “bitter” or “better.” At our weakest moments, when we’re brought to our knees, we must set boundaries, and identify barriers, and triggers that mess with emotions and challenge beliefs.
Do we wait for the moment when we fall to our knees? No, we begin now.
Challenging beliefs, practicing compassion, communicating with clarity, being open to change, and practicing consistency with self and others is a good starting point.
Begin your life change now and transcend to the peace that is waiting for you in the eye of life’s stormiest moments.
Remember what the dormouse said – “Feed Your Head”. Think of what you’re feeding your head, and you may avoid the Rabbit Hole!!!
Having lost a forty-year old brother I know how devastating this tragedy can be to lose a son at this age.
I feel sorry and very sad, GAIL, but glad at the same time you have the right mindset to deal with this issue.
“Amid life’s experiences, we have choices. We can choose to be “bitter” or “better.” At our weakest moments, when we’re brought to our knees, we must set boundaries, and identify barriers, and triggers that mess with emotions and challenge beliefs.”
It seems that tragedies enrich us with their wisdom.