Writes of Courage

Chapter 12: Life - The Analogies

I love metaphors. I enjoy unconventional ways of expressing myself, which give one a fresh take, leave something to the imagination and show you that we shouldn't take ourselves too seriously in life. That we can have fun communicating with each other or just how we view life. How everything that happens to us leaves us with something to take as either a treasure, a lesson or memory into tomorrow. I feel as though life is the biggest metaphor of all. It's such a beautiful shapeshifter that can be compared to anything because we learn from it and through it - every single day. From the most basic things, all the way down to the most complex ones. Here's three of my favorites.

There's this block puzzle game that I've been obsessed with for the past three years or so. Basically, what happens is that you start the game off with an empty grid and zero points. Then you get your first blocks to place into the grid - no instructions, just you and your headspace. Essentially what you are doing is building, but also breaking to make space for more pieces that are being given to you. Much like in life, we grow and progress, leaving so many things behind us throughout our journeys. What I've come to realize is that you are given pieces according to the space that you have left on the grid, [and the further you progress in the game, the higher your score gets.]

Sometimes, there's plenty of block space on the frame and I'd often just place the pieces I'd be given anywhere, without thinking about the ones I'll be given next. Then when the next ones come, I've completely misused the space that they could have easily fit in. Just like in life, we tend to act impulsively and those actions could potentially block what God has lined up for us next. I have learnt to pause for a moment, observe and evaluate carefully what's happening in my life before deciding on my next move. Make decisions taking into account the effects they're going to have on your future. However, in as much as I can be very focused on making the right move and placing the pieces in the 'correct' blocks, from time-to-time my finger would slip. Sometimes I may be certain that I have it all figured out, and then go on to ruin the game for myself. This is life and at the end of the day we're human. Mistakes and all kinds of slip-ups are bound to happen. What is important is to forgive yourself and take another swing at it. This time around, even though it won't be the same as the last one, you are better equipped and not walking in completely blind. You mess up and try again. You grow and get better with every attempt. The whole idea is to remember that it's a one-man game - you're not competing with anyone but yourself. Don't get carried away and lose focus when winning. You are constantly striving for progress, not perfection. Stay humble and know that you can do better, you can aim higher and beat your current high score. When your finger slips, forgive yourself and start again, stronger and better armed this time. You don't give up, you gear up.

In some instances, life can also feel like being in an exam room taking an exam, sometimes with a pen that keeps on getting stuck as you write. One moment it's going well and you seem to be flowing, then out of the blue it just ceases to flow. In that moment when it gets stuck and your flow is interrupted, so many things begin rushing through your mind. 'Who can I ask for help? Am I running out of time? So and so are finishing and I'm going to get left behind'. The second you enter into panic mode, it becomes a pandemonium and you just lose all sight of what's important, including yourself. Lucky for us, it's normal and expected, but it is definitely something to unlearn. Message to take home: focus on yourself. It's not a race!!! We are all writing an exam called life. We are somewhat timed because we are not going to be here forever. And, on this borrowed time that we are living, we have dreams and goals that we would like to achieve at certain times.

That pen gets stuck - it happens. You would swear you were prepared but then a curveball came out of nowhere and knocked you out off your tracks. Instead of sitting in pity and shame, improvise a way forward. Breathe and refocus. Lick your wounds and fight on. Shake that pen till it works again. People will watch and that's their problem, not yours. While they are looking at you with piercing judgement, time is moving. They are putting their lives on hold to judge and ridicule you while you're trying to sort out your own disorder. Be like the ones who remain focused and unfazed when there's unnecessary noise around them, for they know what they are there for. One thing I know for sure is that when your struggle with your pen continues longer than it should, help will find its way to you. The invigilator is there for a reason. In real life, God is never too far to hear your cries, see your tears or feel your pain. He will come to your rescue, for He invites all those who are burdened and heavy laden to come to Him for rest. It's just that sometimes we have to learn certain things about life the hard way so that we are more grateful, to gain motivation or to have our perceptions altered.

Last but not least, a personal favourite and the simplest, yet most effective. Life is anything you want to be. It can be a party, it can be a rollercoaster ride, a pit of sorrow - literally anything you want it to be. You have the power to make the most out of the little that you have.

[REFLECTION: We learn as we go and grow. Remember life can't be perfect, but it can be good.]