Education

Education is vital to my recovery. It is central to my progress. At first my education was about the basics. About my mental illnesses and my meds. I was taking medications and didn't even know what they were for! How could I know if they were working if I didn't know what they were supposed to do?

 Taoism helps me educate myself on various levels simultaneously. Everyday I have to look into the mirror to shave. That image in the mirror reminds me to check myself. Checking myself regularly was an important factor in realizing I had a hernia recently.

The mirror is also a metaphor for reflection. Every time I see my reflection I'm reminded of self-reflection. What were my recent actions, reactions, and responses. Which ones were productive and constructive, and which ones need to be corrected. I can't move forward unless I know what worked and what didn't in the past.

Every move forward is a risk . A step into the unknown. Staying in the same place can get comfortable, but you cannot grow or make progress without forward motion. You can't get to second base with one foot on first. You have to let go to move forward or you're just stuck. Self-reflection gives you the information to take an educated risk. I don't know about you but I do not want to blindly stumble into the unknown.

Self-reflection also helps you to move forward spiritually. After all, we are all here to grow. Physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Growth is an ongoing process. Growth helps us to become better family members, friends, citizens, and feel better about ourselves.

Tonight as you look in the mirror, think about what that person staring back is trying to remind you. Check yourself! Reflect! Educate yourself about you!

'Til next time.