Why anyone
The Zen of the word “Why” is universal and lifelong. It can work as the most insightful word we use. It can also be incredibly irritating. This word is central to human learning and used without prompting by all of us when we get mobile and want to understand the information we are fed as toddlers. Maybe some mad scientist can figure out how all humans eventually choose to ask this question in their own language. No one in our original family taught us to ask that question. They were pretty busy repeating Mama and Dada to hear their own names become the first uttered word. Early language is our first taste of knowledge.
The Mystery of Why
Oddly, why is very mysterious at times. I hear it whining way in my brain by asking “Why me.” My mind actually questions my greatness or ability. The me who has been selected can’t possibly be the right choice. There must be some mistake. It creates resentment when comparison enters the equation because everyone else has not been chosen for this strange honor. It represents hardship because we attach this statement to anyone who is suffering. But the flip side of that comparison interrupts the comparison because it helps to highlight how grateful I should be based on all that I have.
Controlling the Why
When I am trying to explain something new and want to make an idea meaningful, I try and include the why that is lurking in the background. This can be a statement repeated in unfairness and represents something out of my control. When I am grasping for answers, if I can identify the cause I can look around for the solution. Asking why me is self-centered and a small thought. It doesn’t show off the luck of being selected. Turning it around in my head elevates the question to help me appreciate the fact that I am the chosen one and can handle anything sent my way.
Why Not Me
To really get over the tone of this statement, it is best to embrace the selection. When I am selected, I get the chance to rise to the occasion. I get to see the next bend in the growth road, and I build new skills to define for everyone the why in me as a choice. There will be times in life when the spotlight moves and finds each of us. The glare can seem unpleasant at first but once you look up and see how much more is illuminated, you become the me you were meant to be for that moment. You may even miss it when it moves away from you.
When your brain selects you for something especially hard, what is your next thought? No one likes to see anyone else suffering. Would you switch places with someone going through a tough time? Is there anything you can’t handle?
