While working on my manuscript, I've explored several websites which aid writers in the daunting task of cranking out their first book. When I take a break, I work out on the elliptical. While I work out, I normally watch a DVD. But instead of watching the movie, I listen to the director's commentary of the movie. I love learning how the movie came to be.
I've noticed a common theme in both book-writing advice, how to write a successful comedy, and how our lives stay on track: Tension.
Not the tension that causes undue stress and makes you crazy. This is tension we need to live and thrive. Comedy, I learned, always needs tension. If there is no tension, nothing is funny. Muscles don't get stronger without tension and resistance. Without stretching our minds, we don't learn. Without pushing, stretching and strain, babies aren't born--neither are ideas.
I've found myself musing over the fact that deadlines, not enough money, jeans that won't zip, and no milk in the fridge provide a vital component to my day. And instead of fighting and complaining about it, I am beginning to see a change: I welcome the opportunity for growth.
Before you start calling me Pollyanna, think about what tensions you are grappling with today. Just pause for a moment and think about what you're trying to fix, overcome, complete, or even start, and say, "Thank you." These little tensions are keeping us alive and thriving. If they didn't exist, we'd all be blobs in bed!
Here's to all the tensions ahead on this grey Monday morning. Yeehaw!
(c) 2010 Sheri Smith Bertolini
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