It is characteristic of the doldrums that one says things like, "I'm too lazy for that." Your writing and publishing are surely activities that manifest a serious intention to "find the sunken treasure" of yourself. Still, I think what you are getting at is getting out of yourself. I chuckled ruefully at the part about needing a professional comedian.
It only takes a tiny pinch of effort to write "making an effort," instead of "efforting." Still, I suppose it's a slippery slope. More seriously, Kenny Werner, a well-known and creative pianist, wrote a book called "Effortless Mastery" that addresses this important topic from the perspective of a musician.
I see your point. Our experiences are probably different—efforting is not among my vices. I am more likely to be found in the afraid-to-try camp. So for me, effort is a good thing, not something I'd write a manifesto against. I enjoyed the irritable tone of the essay, though, expressing exactly how I feel when I can't win for trying! Exhaustion and irritability are partners. Okay, Susie, I'm stopping here.
I come from a parallel universe, also seventy something and writing about finding treasures to carry me forth -- at my substack "lost & found." Nice read this morning -- thank you!
Why is everyone bummed? What are they, artists? : )
Made me smile. Working on laughing out loud.
It is characteristic of the doldrums that one says things like, "I'm too lazy for that." Your writing and publishing are surely activities that manifest a serious intention to "find the sunken treasure" of yourself. Still, I think what you are getting at is getting out of yourself. I chuckled ruefully at the part about needing a professional comedian.
Also enjoyed the Minnesota piece. I moved to St. Louis Park (late spring, summer, fall) a year and a half ago and love it dearly.
I definitely resonate with the need for "getting out of (one)self. Beyond that, this is a manifesto against efforting.
It only takes a tiny pinch of effort to write "making an effort," instead of "efforting." Still, I suppose it's a slippery slope. More seriously, Kenny Werner, a well-known and creative pianist, wrote a book called "Effortless Mastery" that addresses this important topic from the perspective of a musician.
"Efforting" feels more exhausting than "making an effort." And more ongoing.
I see your point. Our experiences are probably different—efforting is not among my vices. I am more likely to be found in the afraid-to-try camp. So for me, effort is a good thing, not something I'd write a manifesto against. I enjoyed the irritable tone of the essay, though, expressing exactly how I feel when I can't win for trying! Exhaustion and irritability are partners. Okay, Susie, I'm stopping here.
I agree. I have to play the hand I’ve been dealt, but if I’m lucky I can learn a few card tricks to make it interesting.
And a sense of equanimity keeps us swimming instead of drowning. Thanks for another provocative read.
You always give me something to think upon.
Don't you just love mental exercise?
I come from a parallel universe, also seventy something and writing about finding treasures to carry me forth -- at my substack "lost & found." Nice read this morning -- thank you!
Great to hear from you. Will check out Lost & Found for sure.