From a young age, we focus on training our thinking minds, or Mr. Mind, to organize life and pursue success. This continual effort strengthens our mental abilities. However, we are seldom taught how to manage our emotions, or Miss Emotion, or even how to become aware of them.
Parents might ask if we are happy, but seldom do they ask, "How do you feel?" When problems arise, Mr. Mind is quick to offer solutions, while Miss Emotion often remains in the background, less acknowledged.
If thinking and feeling were parts of a car, Mr. Mind would be the hardware, and Miss Emotion would be the fuel. They like Yang and Yin. Without fuel, the car would sit idle in the garage. Similarly, without positive feelings, our physical bodies feel drained and unable to enjoy anything.
During the lockdown, I had no choice but to confront Miss Emotion, whom I had neatly packed away for a long time. Mr. Mind tried to find solutions for Miss Emotion through activities like cooking, reading, walking, gardening & etc. These efforts worked for a few days, but then Miss Emotion would surface with new pieces of sadness, exploring every detail, imagining scenarios that hadn’t happened and likely wouldn't, driving herself from sadness to anger, fear, guilt, regret.. you name it.
One day, I randomly picked up a book called 'Silence: The Power of Quiet in a World Full of Noise' by Thich Nhat Hanh. Although I had read it before, I decided to start again. Hanh introduces meditation and stillness in a simple form. The concept of the "Island of Self" particularly resonated with me—a place to visit during meditation to find joy and peace without external disturbances. This was a new perspective for me, different from my usual bed-itation (meditation in bed). Since Mr. Mind couldn't find a permanent solution for Miss Emotion, I thought maybe it was time to visit this magic island, even if only for a short period of peace, giving Mr. Mind some time to figure out the "how."
Coincidentally, I reconnected with an old friend from the other side of the world. We usually talk once or twice a year, focusing on career and wealth. This time, our conversation took a different turn. We shared our meditation experiences and discovered we both admired the same guru from the USA. What a coincidence!
Every tiny step brings me back to meditation, urging me to discover "who I AM." This journey isn't easy, but it's empowering. It's about understanding that both Mr. Mind and Miss Emotion have their roles, and learning to balance them is key.
As Thich Nhat Hanh says, "The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it." This quote reminds me to stay present and acknowledge both my thoughts and emotions.
So, what do you do when your mind's nonstop thinking overshadows your feelings?
Perhaps it's time to find your own "Island of Self." Give yourself the compassion and understanding you need.
Remember, it's okay to seek balance and to find moments of stillness amidst the chaos.
Your journey might be challenging, but it's also an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.