Crisis Meets Opportunity
What can be
more traumatic than addiction? To become aware of being out of behavioral
control and attached to a substance and or process to the point of sheer
destruction of one's life? Sounds pretty scary - Not to mention the "ripple
effect" of such a crisis, on others connected to the individual, family,
workplace, etc. This can make for a highly complex issue leaving people feeling
confused, overwhelmed and powerless. However, whether one is dealing with
addiction, depression, pain issues or the like, deep within the situation there
is a way through it - solutions, and a gem of opportunity waiting to be
discovered.
The Chinese
have been aware of this phenomenon for thousands of years. In Chinese the word
for crisis consists of two characters: one meaning danger, and one meaning
opportunity. Why? Because crisis always feels dangerous and can indeed be
dangerous. However, it is often our response to sudden or unwanted events which
impact outcomes and the future; but that can be tough to see in the moment when
paralyzed by fear. Our fear of danger may be necessary for self-protection in
some cases, but can distract us and impair our ability to see through
presenting situations and identify important information and solutions. We often
miss themes and patterns that are embedded in such circumstances which are
clamoring for our attention and trying to provide guidance for us to find our
way. Hence, the interpretation of the Chinese proverb also says that it is the
rare person who can see the opportunity within a crisis.
In talking
health and wellness, we need to recognize that our symptoms are messages
communicating our needs, fears and wants. As a trusted mentor once said,
"It is easy for human beings to mislabel experiences as symptoms." It
is natural to not want to be uncomfortable and when we do feel uncomfortable we
may be apt to view our unwanted experiences as symptoms to be cured. But, when
this type of thinking occurs, we miss the learning and information we need to
create more productive conditions to move forward, to learn about ourselves and
our needs.
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