fleas in a jar…
Posted by Allison Mack | Filed under Blog
Hello there!
I have recently been reflecting on the beauty of humility and the amazing things that come with letting go of your own expectations and pride. It’s almost feels like you are able to experience more of your life. I never saw how much pride I carried with me until I came up against my own image and saw how obvious it was that I wasn’t who I was claiming to be. Now for me, this was a huge deal.
Being an actress for most of my life, I have always been very comfortable doing what I was doing. I almost had an air of cocky-ness about the way I worked and behaved. This cocky-ness resulted in some humor and confidence, but also frustration and entitlement. I often chose to relate to people in a way that was very volatile and unpredictable. The weirdest part about this is that I really didn’t know any other option in which to operate. I had been so used to doing it the same way for so long that I completely shut down the option of there being another way. It’s like that story about the fleas in a jar; put a bunch of fleas in a jar and stick a glass lid on it and the fleas will jump and hit the lid a few times and eventually stop jumping so high. Remove the lid and the fleas will continue to stay in the jar. They don’t know the option of jumping out exists until one of them finally does it. This changes everything for all of them. We are like that, us humans, jumping just below the non-existent lid we once came up against.
I think the purpose of life is to grow, inspire, create, relate and love. The only way we truly do these things is by being in the experience of life, looking for your failures in regards to how you are being in your life and seek to evolve, or as my friend says “transcend”.
If we have an idea of where we are going in regards to who we want to be, then we steer the ship in this direction. When we fall off course, we find the best way to adjust the wheel, turn back on course.
It is my belief that this is what sets us apart from animals, or fleas 
. I also believe it is one of the most beautiful qualities we have as a species, abstract thought and the ability to inspire and be inspired.
So I encourage each of you to take a good long look at your pride in who you think you are, design who you would ideally like to be, and check in with who you practice every day. If we look at life as an experiment, the hypothesis being your ideal self and the process of experimenting being your every-moment life-choices, wouldn’t it feel a lot easier to challenge your pride? Come up against who you think you need to be? Make the top priority becoming who you want to be, and enjoying the ride?
It’s like the ultimate science fair. With people all around you on the same journey. I’m thinking there wouldn’t be as much violence and oppression. But again, maybe I am naive.
Just some thoughts on this fantastic Sunday evening.
ox
allison
Tags: Choices, experiment, hypothesis, image, life, pride
63 Responses to “fleas in a jar…”
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The Friday Philosopher! Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 5:05 amI couldn’t agree more! My grandmother used to say that pride comes before a fall, and I personally was at my proudest before I lost everything.
The one thing I like about the human race is that there is always one who is willing to test the glass lid once more, even after countless have tried and failed.
Thanks for sharing.
Friday
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Tucker Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 5:18 amWhat a fabulously timely topic. This is something I’ve been faced with for – well, for quite a long time, actually, but – the last few months. With the recent passing of a good man and friend, it has become an even more glaring dissection. Who I am, who I need to be, who I want to be, and who I perceive myself to be through others’ eyes. What is important and just how is it important.
This is at the crux of my daily thoughts right now. I don’t have much insights yet. I do like the idea of boiling it down to experiment, though. Seems simple enough and yet, as human beings are wont to do, we cloud our minds in too much thought and not enough action. I’m ready to be unclouded.
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Denis Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 5:37 amVery thought provoking and inspiring, thank you for assisting in turning my brain on for the morning.
Also, Allison I have bad news for you;
Re;”Just some thoughts on this fantastic Sunday evening.” It’s actually Monday right now. Sorry to ruin it for you.
Hope you have a good day though.
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william Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 5:39 amI agree. It is wise to set a path/plan in life and to be careful of having the wrong type of pride, and becareful of who we are/who we are becoming. Doing this on a daily basis is a great idea.
thanks allison,
william -
Robin Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 6:20 amI think most of us hold a self image of ourselves that isn’t who we really are, or wish we were. It’s a bit like hearing the sound of our own voice being played back on an answer machine…I mean do I really sound like that?…yikes!
Before I begin this experiment, I ought to declare the sort of human being I aspire to be.
For starters I’d like to let myself be happier, more thoughtful, kinder person who takes the time to appreciate living in the moment and having greater confidence in myself to allow me to be the genuine me!
Maybe I need to write my own “Bucket List” both external and internal of all the things and places to see and do and the sort of person I’d like to be while I’m still living, both big and small and set myself targets for each day, month and year.
Unfortunately I’ve always been rather a lazy person, happy to just drift through life , lots of people I know have life changing goals that they MUST reach by X years, be it a carreer, a house, girlfriend, marraige, children…
I seem to have side-stepped most of these and my own ship has hit stormy waters and gone way off course, but my ship still has a sail, I hope i’m headed in the right direction for new exciting adventures and undiscovered countries… -
edicius Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 6:29 amI totally get what Robin’s saying. I’ve been one of those people that coasts. If something doesn’t work out or it takes too much effort, I lose my motivation. Which is no way to progress through life. I’m lucky enough to finally be getting my BA in September after 10 years of classes. Now I’m considering a Masters…but the motivation factor scares the hell out of me, considering I’m still in a comfort zone right now.
What do all you guys do to keep yourselves motivated? And keep in mind, things like keeping lists, envisioning the finish line, etc. just don’t work for me. I know I need some kind of drastic paradigm shift in my head, but I don’t know how to affect such change right now.
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Jesse Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 6:37 amHi Allison
Great Analogy with the “Fleas in the Jar”, it is very difficult to find out who you are and taking the steps necessary in getting there. I feel a lot of people including myself are risk averse and because of external things like the economy they don’t see a direction. I agree with everything you said, life is about growth, inspiration, relating to others and for the most part love. Our life experience is the only way to do this, growth or as you mentioned transcendence. Allison, I think this assessment of your life is amazing and I hope it leads you to a state of contentment in your life and for the most part it makes you truly happy. ummm….
-Jesse
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EO Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 6:45 amWhat an interesting way to look at something that I absolutely agree with. I have those times in which I feel that I need to step back and examine how I handle life and all the situations that are presented to me. Relationships, work, friends, personal overviews, all those things can be viewed with the same concept of the fleas in a jar.
There’s always multiple ways one can handle situations and mine are usually the more emotional, gut reactions that could be handled a little better if I would just take a moment to step back and breathe.
That’s quite an insightful way for me to start my week, thanks Allison and I have to agree with you…If more people took the time to find the other (perhaps better) options and outlooks in life this world might be a less violent and self-absorbed place to live.
Have a great week Allison.
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Joe Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 6:47 amIt’s amazing the things you stumble upon. I’ve been philosophising in much the same way recently, I’ve been a lot more experimental and impulsive. Each day I do one more thing that I never would have in the past, just to see what will happen. I’ve been doing this since the start of the year and so far it’s been one of the best years of my life.
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Dream_Walker Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 7:03 amNice “fleas in a jar” metaphore
I Totally agree, i found myself often being carried away by other people by being what they expected me to be. At some point i couldnt relate to who i had become and everyone saw me. So i broke the vicious cycle, now i just do what i like, what i feel is right and i nolonger feel like puppet on strings but as stringpuller 
I find life so exciting, vigorous, full of joy, beauty, almost un comprehensible its just amazing So i earge everyone to push the boundaries, explore everything and no matther what stay true to Yourself:D Cheers, DW
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Beth Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 7:18 amI couldn’t agree more. I am all for becoming who you want to be and enjoying the ride. Sounds great.
Thanks for sharing Allison…
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Gnome Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 7:20 amOh my……………
Too much to think after a hangover…
Anyway, speaking of pride… I just lost mine yesterday…
HeheheheNow seriously.
I had my fall some years ago. It was a real learnt lesson and in the worst way possible.I realized that no matter how much you idealize and go for a shapeshift of who you really are it always gonna seem like you are not going anywhere.
You always gonna want to be something else, something more…
And thats one of the most amazing things on human beings: our capacity of mutation, of adapting on new environments.
We never gonna be satisfied. Thats what keep us moving.Sooo, nowadays, I just wish to be myself, just a Gnome. And a happy one.
Living my life without the influence of society. A simple and plain life, only worrying about respecting myself and the others.I learnt that I have nothing to prove on anyone. And even if I try to be somebody good enough to someone else I will not gonna be good enough to everyone.
So, at least, I have to be good enough for me, since I’m the only person that I’m gonna have to deal 24/7…
Plain and simple. Since I’m weak to change the whole world.. I just wait for the world to change me…. or not
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Beth Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 7:22 amAs for Joe’s comment, I’ve been doing the same, taking advantage of many more opportunities than I used to and I completely agree with him…09′s been the best year of my life. I’m on cloud nine.
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David Hayes Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 7:41 am“Allison … Don’t Go Changing”
based upon a Billy Joel songDon’t go changing, to try and please us,
You never let us down before,
Don’t imagine, you’re too familiar,
And we won’t watch you anymore.We would not leave you, in times of trouble,
We never could have come this far,
We took the good times, we’ll take the bad times,
We’ll take you just the way you are.You can keep trying some new fashions,
Or change the color of your hair,
You always have our, unspoken passion,
No matter what new look you wear.We enjoy your clever … conversation,
Your attitude has won our hearts,
We just want someone … to look up to,
We want you just the way you are.We need to know that you will always be
The same old someone that we knew,
What will it take till you believe in YOU,
The way that WE believe in you?You know we love you, and that’s forever,
And this we promise from the heart,
We couldn’t love you, any better,
We love you just the way you are.We love your clever … conversation,
Your attitude has won our hearts,
We just want someone … to look up to,
We love you just the way you are. -
Avitable Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 8:05 amThat’s an interesting perspective. I think some pride is good. Pride in your work, pride in your accomplishments, pride in the journey you’ve made. That’s a good type of pride.
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Lorraine Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 8:07 am“I think the purpose of life is to grow, inspire, create, relate and love. The only way we truly do these things is by being in the experience of life, looking for your failures in regards to how you are being in your life and seek to evolve, or as my friend says “transcend”.”
What you said here drew me and in some way echoed what I wrote in a poem way back August 1998.
Moments of Existence
By Lorraine YenMoments of existence
We moved so differently
Busy with our own agendas
Steadily working for our aspirationsPeople who we meet along the way, touches us
Several, changes us still
It is a never-ending phase
Of walking in our moments of existenceEach new day reveals challenges
We all come to face
We may choose what is right for us
Though mistakes will always be a part of usLearning from our shortcomings
Show only growth towards a better self
But the journey though seemed far
Will always be a guiding force for all. -
Aziza Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 8:21 amAllison! look what you did! Now I have to look at myself directly- in the mirror. sheesh.
haha I’m glad you wrote this. I admit pride is a part of life as is humility too but I don’t think I was handling them the right way. I think I was too scared to let go of my pride because I didn’t want take off my own armour, look in the mirror and say “You blew it!”
I know I’m not the same person now as I was 5 years ago. And I wouldn’t be the same person in the next few years. But I do want constants in my life- with everything changing happiness, charity, understanding, compassion, humility, should be knotted along the string of life.
But I never thought of making a list about what I would change about myself. The ideas are there, floating.
But I am looking forward to actually designing who I want to be. Well first I need to check in with who I am
Have a nice day!
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David Hayes Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 8:37 am… so are we dancing because we are happy … or because the fleas got out of the jar?
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Robin Hebert Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 8:41 amWow Allison….you should be a psychiatrist!!! So many people think they have the answer to how the psyche works…but no solution on how to change. I like what you said about transcend. I used to do Transcendental Meditation where the whole premise is being still enough to tap the pool of creative intelligence. Now that I am a Christian…I think of what God says: Be still and know that I am God. He is the source and it’s infinite….the creative ways of being. I hate ruts. I always want to experience more of life. God bless.
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Silvia Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 8:49 amHi Allison,
First of all… you are not naive – I think you’re very smart. By thinking you seem to realise the greater relations which is by the way not as understood as many people might think. You’re blessed to have this ability.
Pride is not the only thing that keeps you from seeing an other option. We are creatures of habit. So if something works great for us we usually don’t look for another option. That’s why changing one’s habits is such a big deal. To reorientate ourselves is one of the biggest challenges in our life. I personally think that it’s not our pride that keeps us form going another way. I think it needs real courage and will to do it.
xo
Silvia -
Medina Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 8:58 amNamaste
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Veronica Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 9:02 amI liked this entry Allison very beautifully written, & I liked your concept about the fleas in a jar very true. I have had alot of experience in that area because I have had my pride up for as long as I can remember I just got used to it in a way & never let my guard down because i’ve been hurt too many times by people I trusted so in a way I just got used to it like the Fleas until someone told me that it was okay to let go & continue on.
Thanks Allison have a great Week!
Veronica/Susana
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sammyag Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 9:16 amI wouldn’t want to be the Rabat Joie (like the french say) but, Being within life makes it really hard when it comes to deal with humility pride and ego..We’re inside life..not, above it…so we can only try.
You’re not naîve Ally or Cliché or what so ever.. It’s all about trying, and it’s a lifetime fight…And you’re doing great..really… Breaking your ego dosn’t mean not using it…to protect yourself.
It’s all about being balanced: Ego, Pride, Humility, Kindness, and so…
Too much of anything can bring you underground….
And above all, Honesty is what I believe to be the starting point of..practically all the mentioned above..
(It’s just a personal opinion) -
Lynsey Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 9:23 amI don’t think that it’s naive to want to challenge yourself and your views, and hope that others will do the same – I think it takes real strength of character to look honestly at yourself and make positive changes to become who you want to be.
A couple of years ago, after graduating college, I went through a period where I didn’t really know who I wanted to be or what I wanted to do with my life – I’d always been in education and I was happy and comfortable there. It took a lot of soul searching but now I’m happy with what I have and what I’ve accomplished; but whenever I’m feeling complacent I look back at that time in my life and remember how important it is to continue to challenge and push myself, and to have something to strive for.
I think we all put ourselves into boxes (or, to use your analogy, jars) and it can be difficult to break out, but that doesn’t mean we should stop trying. We all lose our way sometimes, and we all make mistakes, but that’s all part of the journey. And after all, that’s what counts – the destination is just a small part of the picture.
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Lydia Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 9:53 amIt took me quite some time to figure out who I want to be and what I want out of life.
Through trial and error, I’m working towards a better self and I try to make a difference in every possible way.
It is a journey of a lifetime for which I’m very grateful.
Have a joyful week Allison.
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MarilyneL Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 10:22 amThat is obviously a hard move to make. I try really hard and I think it’s starting to pay off and it shows when someone is true to oneself and kinda at peace and yes, enjoying the ride hehe!
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jennygirl Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 10:42 amI have no idea what I want to change….I need to think.
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Coco Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 10:56 amHi,
wow very interesting. Particularly because it’s my frame of mind since a couple of days….and that a question I can’t answer yet.
Take care,
xo -
Kyle Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 10:56 amI truly believe pride is the one of the primary reasons why there are so many problems in society. If everyone cultivated humility, obedience and respect…well things would be so much better
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Netra Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 11:17 amIt’s called conditioning…we learn early what we are “allowed” to do, or “allowed” to have…and we go through life on that assumption….what we fail to realize though, is that we put the lids on ourselves….and then never bother to check to see if it’s still there…that I feel is being conditioned by those that came before us. I feel like we have been told that in life to be considered sucsessful or a person of worth, we have to have money, and a nice house, and a nice car…and trendy clothes….we fill our lives with these things, and don’t stop to think….why is this so important? And IS this in fact important to me? I like the way you think…it’s an ongoing process, that never takes a break……just be the best you that you know how to be….if you see something that you want go for it, without fear of failure…because the only true failure is in the never attempting!!
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Amanda N. Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 11:35 amYou have given me a great deal of things to contemplate over.I always thought that I had this great plan for myself,but maybe it is not as clear as I once thought it to be.My dad has somewhat brought up the issue of not being too prideful concerning different matters of who you are and the people around you.Sometimes though I think my mom can be like that,but I understand where she is coming from.Thanks Allison for the fleas story I had never heard that before,it really helped me to understand this thought provaking post.
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Silvia Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 12:07 pmPS
…it also needs insight. -
arash Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 12:27 pmI have to check the NY sunday fleamarket one day!!
There are two facts to observe here;
1. for every group of fleas banging their head on a clear glass lid there is an Allison smiling and having fun
2. The not-so-smart fleas who keep banging their head again and again are the ones who get out first, when the lid is off.
p.s. I guess my analogy has nothing to do with what allison was talking about. -
Kris Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 12:29 pmI agree that it is so important to maintain a mental image of the ideal self and to understand that you’re allowed to make changes to that image as you travel through life and add to your experience. I also think that flexibility in our self-perception can become quite an asset in hard times. If you always have that ideal image of ‘WHO’ you want to be, it’ll never matter ‘WHAT’ happens to you.
I lost all my hearing over a pretty short time frame last year, and I know that I could have easily become ‘lost’ in the chaos that resulted from that. I had to change my perception of myself and that ideal image of myself to include being deaf. But I know ‘WHO’ I am, and that isn’t defined by whether or not I can hear anymore. I’ve also had to do A LOT of pride swallowing because I was always fiercely independent, and now I struggle with basic communication and need a lot of help from people.
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Ronja Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 12:57 pmI love your blog entries, they are so inspiring
thank you <3 -
francesco Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 1:53 pmHello Allison , my name is Francis and I write you from Italy, I really liked the comparison with fleas in the jar. I have many more years than you, but you are very deep and I admire you. A very good actress and a great woman in real life. We are friends on “myspace”, I am a big fan of “Smalville. Sorry my English not good. With love from the north-Italy, Francis
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David Hayes Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 2:23 pmThink of people who don’t strive to do anything they can be proud of. I don’t want them building my car.
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Vanessa (spain) Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 2:41 pmI was always very confused about what I wanted to do with my life… I knew I wanted to be happy, and I knew I wanted to be a good person. But I grew up very pessimistic, crying and thinking about how bad everything looked in the world, and thinking I could never change that and I could never be happy.
I used to blame everyone else for every single bad thing that happened to me, and sometimes I felt that I was too good for this world… I knew there was something wrong with me, I just didn´t know what.
But last year everything started to change in my life. I realized that I could always find happiness and beauty inside myself, and if I could do that I would be able to do it with the rest of the world. From that moment I started being more optimistic. I focused in all the good things, and I couldn´t believe how blind I had been before.
Every night I used to write down good things of the day, and that helped me to be thankful for my life, I think for the first time ever. And after a while I learned what I really wanted to do with my life. That includes going back to college, and that´s something I´m a bit scared of, because I´ve failed before to finish any “projects” I started. But I think that´s because back then I wasn´t sure about what I wanted. Now I have a goal.
And also, I use my pride to follow my dreams, and to see every situation in my life as an opportunity to learn something, and never think of it as a failure.
One of the things that inspired me to change the way I saw myself and the world was this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ji5_MqicxSo
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Joel Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 2:43 pmYou almost could say you sometimes need to scratch that itch (sorry…flea thing) that drives you towards new horizons/challenges. You are, as always, correct in that we need to continue to jump and test the boundaries that are currently set before us. Be that, a glass jar or even a glass ceiling.
In my case, needing to “jump ship” in my previously decent paying life to start over at the bottom to recapture the essence of who I am and who I truly want to be. Life sometimes sucks greatly nowadays, but I’m learning so much more and rediscovering lost talents I traded away out of fear/anxiety/lack of time, etc. And I’m excited to re-invent myself to better myself. I am greatful for a loving wife who is there to support and challenge me.
Just like yourself this summer in Prague and in the years to come. You have that insatiable gift to see further and understand deeper. Your gifts will go beyond acting and family. Your spirit and energy will energize so many. You have such a gift, and we are all glad you are sharing it. -
JBdude27 Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 2:58 pmI tottaly agree with what u said, everyone has a purpose a higher goal to reach…
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Krystal Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 3:20 pmSeeing yourself for who you really are is such a hard thing to do. I resist the reflection so many times hoping that tomorrow it will be different.
I used to look at my family with pride colored glasses thinking that I had such a clearer picture of how life should be lived. Me and my college education, and career in music. But recently I realized that those things were not going to make me the person that I wanted to be. I resigned from a secure job (even in this economy) and decided to a least try for a few of my dreams. Right after I resigned, my jar was literally burned down. My home caught fire a few weeks ago and it has shoved me from the comfort of the jar into the changing process even sooner than I had planned. It is frightening and invigorating all at the same time. Still it has all been a humbling experience because I, Miss Independant, have had to realize that I have to accept other’s help and in new ways stand on my own two feet.
Maybe I would have never had the moxie to jump from the jar on my own. That is a truly humbling though.
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Brittany Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 3:24 pmHey Allison! This is fantastic! What a great way to put it. I completely agree with you. Pride is definetly something I should be concentrating on and figuring out. I hope as I grow older I’ll be able to be as reflective and creative as you! You play such an importatnt role in my life, and this blog means so much to me. You’re so inspiring. Thank you for posting this!
Much love & support,
Brittany -
Jade Ruby Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 4:42 pmOne of the things I have trouble with is choosing the right companions for my own inspiration. I do have to handle my own pride, but also I have to learn how to surround myself with self-controlled ethical companions.
To inspire, and be inspired. Yes.
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Jim H Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 8:07 pmIf you want to explore the possibilities of what life truly means read, “The Elements of Zen” by Scott and Doubleday. Trust me, it will open your eyes in ways you can’t imagine
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thomas Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 10:11 pmBless you Allison.
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BOUROUX Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 10:27 pmHi Allison
The way we interact with people around us developed gradually. Our education, our experiences and beliefs have had an impact on our behavior.
Some of our behavior is automatic that protect us and allow us to survive in the jungle of life today.
Challenging some of the automation is a good idea because things change for us and the others.
The changes must be done cautiously to not break the balance that allows us to function well. Be patient with ourself and give us all the compassion that we are ready to give to others.
It’s a step by step procedure.
Allison, your scene with Clark at the end of Stilletto was amazing. Your facial and eye expressions are fabulous.
It is a pleasure to see close up of your face. Few actresses are able to communicate feelings as well as you with their faces.
Good nightClaude.
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thomas Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 11:19 pmThe ideal self is sometimes hard to see. Your blog made me think of the Ugly Duckling. The Ugly Duck was confused about what the ideal self was. The other child ducks all could see their ideal selves in their parents. When the Ugly Duck looked upon the beautiful Swans, the Ugly Duck transcended into something more beautiful then it had ever imagined. The Ugly Duck’s ideal self was not a duck at all.
Thank you Allison for you blogs.
You are such a good role model. Many a child looks at you and sees the ideal self they want to be. Many a person sees the kindness and warmth in you and want to be just like you. Bless you and thank you.
Smiles and blessings,
tom -
María Says:
April 27th, 2009 at 11:32 pmchasing the white rabbit? good for you!!
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Aziza Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 12:29 amThomas, you said it so well.
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Vanessa (spain) Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 12:42 amWhy do my posts sometimes need to wait for moderation and sometimes don´t? :S
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Vanessa (spain) Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 12:43 amI´ll try again with the one that I posted before..
I was always very confused about what I wanted to do with my life… I knew I wanted to be happy, and I knew I wanted to be a good person. But I grew up very pessimistic, crying and thinking about how bad everything looked in the world, and thinking I could never change that and I could never be happy.
I used to blame everyone else for every single bad thing that happened to me, and sometimes I felt that I was too good for this world… I knew there was something wrong with me, I just didn´t know what.
But last year everything started to change in my life. I realized that I could always find happiness and beauty inside myself, and if I could do that I would be able to do it with the rest of the world. From that moment I started being more optimistic. I focused in all the good things, and I couldn´t believe how blind I had been before.
Every night I used to write down good things of the day, and that helped me to be thankful for my life, I think for the first time ever. And after a while I learned what I really wanted to do with my life. That includes going back to college, and that´s something I´m a bit scared of, because I´ve failed before to finish any “projects” I started. But I think that´s because back then I wasn´t sure about what I wanted. Now I have a goal.
And also, I use my pride to follow my dreams, and to see every situation in my life as an opportunity to learn something, and never think of it as a failure.
One of the things that inspired me to change the way I saw myself and the world was this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ji5_MqicxSo
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Silvia Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 2:21 amHi Allison,
Well, you know, I love this kind of your postings. However, I plead guilty
, for I really was pinched for time yesterday. I wanted to write a longer comment than I did. So I catch up on that now. I think we don’t need to let go of our pride. There’s nothing wrong about pride as long as pride doesn’t make us conceited, rude and arrogant. Every living creature on this planet has and needs some pride. For example: If you regularly look after your indoor plant and even talk to it, you can literally watch it thrive and prosper. The plant’s pride lets it grow… but… if you do the opposite, you can watch it dying.
Take a look at those who lost their pride and see how they wither. You see, every creature needs some pride in order to live. Even nuns and monks are somehow pride – even if they’d never admit or know that. However, you are right, humility is beautiful. It is also a helping hand, for if you don’t want your pride to work sickening for you, you need to be humble – to live your pride humbly.
The ideal self…
Changes follow after somebody came to conclusion. It is as less difficult to see the real you as it is to see one’s ideal self. In point of fact it is quite easy, but it needs bravery for most people are afraid of what they could see. The ride to the ideal self might not be enjoyable for everyone and you have to keep in mind that you sometimes have to lose in order to win.However, the ride to the ideal self is like a trip to the horizon… and when the horizon is within your grasp, the end of your journey is near. Bon voyage!
xo
Silvia -
Kimberly Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 5:08 amI love this!!! I just recently started a new job in which I have a few people reporting to me and reading this has helped me prepare for another day!
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David Hayes Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 5:18 amI wanted to do a flea cartoon yesterday, but ran out of time and had a website mishap that’s going to cost me. Also, I made the mistake of drawing the fleas as black. I think I heard somewhere that Allison’s fleas are white as snow.
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David Hayes Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 7:22 amSimilar to the flea analogy. When an infant elephant is being domesticated, they put a chain around it’s leg and secure the elephant to a post or stake. The elephant will struggle to free its leg and finally learn that it can’t. When the elephant learns its lesson, the chain is replaced by a rope that the elephant could break … but it ‘knows’ it can’t. This training has to happen early because a mature elephant could break the chain. It has to learn early on how powerless it is so humans can control it as an adult. So … are you as powerless as you believe? What chains hold you?
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Jennifer Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 7:35 amI haven’t heard the fleas in a jar story in a long time.
I am just like Beth. I am all for becoming who you want to be and enjoying the ride.
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Smallvillekent Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 8:12 amAllison, I like the flea story. Yes we all need to put aside our pride, grow be all we can and enjoy the ride.
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arash Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 8:35 amIt’s official! the new phrase is; “Think out of the jar”.
I was just thinking what if the pixels on a Mona Lisa picture on my screen decide to think out of the jar and practice their personal freedom to be a different color.
If everybody in this community agrees with what this blog says, then wouldn’t thinking out of the jar be opposing the idea ? It is a tricky subject. -
Karen Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 11:39 amIf you ever produce a movie about a 20-something trying to figure out her life you should call it:”Ultimate Science Fair.” That line was stellar. I really enjoy your posts Allison. They make me think about the deep stuff.
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Marax18 Says:
April 28th, 2009 at 5:12 pmThank you Allison..It’s very Nice thoughts from very Smart girl..
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Torias Says:
April 29th, 2009 at 3:04 pmHumility is what you feel when you come to one of two realizations.
1. Exactly how small a human is in an endless universe.
2. How much a human can accomplish in an increasingly complicated world.
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Irene Says:
April 29th, 2009 at 8:23 pmI would love to take off this resentment I wear like a “favorite leather jacket”, and stop using it as an excuse for not being more patient, loving, or hospitable with people.
The reason I desire this change is, because I realize that in allowing this resentment to bare down on me, the people that hurt me still influence & affect me today! THAT MAKES ME MAD!!
and the truth of the matter is, I’m the only one that can change that.I have to take off the old and put on the New! you know?!
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tn_tank Says:
July 3rd, 2009 at 8:57 pmWOW… I have never viewed life in that way, as a ‘science experiment’, thanks for sharing
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