“The idea danced and danced.” from A Psalm for the Wild-built by Becky Chambers

I read A Psalm for the Wild-built today. (Don’t be all impressed–it’s only 147 pages.) I can’t stop thinking about it. When I put the book down, I realized the protagonist, Dex, had been on a Hero’s Journey, too. It’s really a deep and lovely story that, I think, will end up along side self-awareness books like The Alchemist, Illusions, and Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance.

The quote above comes when Dex sees the option to go out into the wilderness.  I love the imagery of the idea twirling into their mind and twirling back out.  Peeking around the corner and giggling dizzy.

Is there an idea that keeps dancing through your mind?

In the NY Times series, “It’s Never too Late,” there’s a quote that’s absolutely critical advice for anyone on the Hero’s Journey, “Don’t be afraid of embarrassment or opening yourself up to criticism.” That fear may be a big reason people don’t do the things they want to– they don’t want to look stupid.

Or maybe it’s a deeper fear:  that no one really cares what you do. I see that phrase as a paradox. Yes, people are not going to care what you do unless it affects them directly. And, yes, people don’t care what you do as long as it makes you happy.  You know, you can ask them and see that I am correct.

What idea has been leaping (Jeté!) through your mind?

What small step can you take to start on that Journey?  What turn do you need to take to get you on a new road?

Read some inspiring stories today to get you going. You could be next.

Photo by Laura Fuhrman on Unsplash