Point blank range
Blame buddies are our closest friends. They are always nearby and ready to shoulder whatever we throw at them. They can be real live people, circumstances, time-oriented or whatever form feels quick and convenient. They are useful at work, at traffic stops, around family members or anywhere a little convenient escape hatch is needed. Parents and lovers depend on them. Our game of life has multiple get out of jail free cards. The explanation of where to place blame can be followed by guilt, regret or relief. It’s a multitasker. Sometimes I use blame for skipping waking up early to exercise but it also works when I can’t put down the book I am reading to switch off the light and get enough sleep. Which usually means that I may choose to skip exercising because I am tired. A full circle moment. But it is not cool to accept blame if it is not yours to own. That’s why we give it away so easily. But maybe it doesn’t need us. Typically, blame is fairly obvious. I find it more fun to see what happens if we allow it to remain invisible. Searching for it becomes more like a game. In fact, video games are great ways to watch how we use blame. It is certainly more fun that way.
You are Extraordinary!
Week 28: It was really my fault
Children learn how to use blame very early and I am really not sure how. Adults are experts at quickly assigning blame. If it sticks, great. But it is not a hopeful action. This is my own reminder to close my mouth when blame starts to pop up in my throat. That allows those around me to make up their own objects to blame. And it might not be me taking the fall for something I really had no part in. It’s like magic sometimes. Credit is the opposite. If you hear some credit coming your way, grab on and own it. They don’t travel together and don’t know each other well. That’s a bonus.
