I like the way you differentiate between regret and shame because sometimes it’s too easy to easy to slip from the first to the second, stopping all progress. And I love the last haiku and art. Reading this was definitely worth it!
Most of the time we’re doing what seems to be the right thing in the moment. I think regret comes when we gain insight, and realize maybe we could’ve acted differently. I hope you’re kind and gentle with yourself about those memories. All we can try to do is start over— every day is a new chance.
Even at 75, I think about all the many stupid things I did. I don't know yet if these "nightmares" I have in the night re regrets or shame. If I can't amend the situation after all these years, is it shame. I certainly regret what I've done. And the 'victim' has probably forgotten both that incident and me. Guilt is a nasty, toxic thing, Jason.
Guilt is so corrosive, especially when weaponized by authority figures. The regrets I'm talking about are a different species. Less something to repent over and more something to do differently next time.
These things I was talking about are little "sins." The tiny ooopses and "did I really say that" episodes of everyday life that make a person cringe. Little signals of where to improve one's behavior. It's a constant thing, though, when you're as clueless as I am.
Powerful stuff... personal and hits home. Those shy kids are shy for a reason. No regrets please it's all a learning curve and cure. Wonderful art as always! I find regrets, in my understanding to be very limiting and stopping me from breathing. I feel I should write a poem about it. This has inspired me. If I go deep into thinking of regrets it gets debilitating. There's a reason always right? Love this post.
Regrets will be there, what's important is that you don't let them anchor you to the past. We must recognize that the past can't be changed - it's that which lets us live freely.
Thank you! It boggles my mind how so many grown-ups (mostly men, frankly) love to claim they can't think of a single mistake or regret from their life.
This is a really good piece, Jason. Hits home.
Thanks, Julie!
I like the way you differentiate between regret and shame because sometimes it’s too easy to easy to slip from the first to the second, stopping all progress. And I love the last haiku and art. Reading this was definitely worth it!
Thank you, Cindy! That last haiku has become kind of a mantra for me at the end of the day.
A very insightful reflection. I can’t imagine not having regrets.
Right? I feel it's the most toxic trait to claim you have never made. mistake or have a regret.
Most of the time we’re doing what seems to be the right thing in the moment. I think regret comes when we gain insight, and realize maybe we could’ve acted differently. I hope you’re kind and gentle with yourself about those memories. All we can try to do is start over— every day is a new chance.
For sure, every day is a blank slate
Even at 75, I think about all the many stupid things I did. I don't know yet if these "nightmares" I have in the night re regrets or shame. If I can't amend the situation after all these years, is it shame. I certainly regret what I've done. And the 'victim' has probably forgotten both that incident and me. Guilt is a nasty, toxic thing, Jason.
Guilt is so corrosive, especially when weaponized by authority figures. The regrets I'm talking about are a different species. Less something to repent over and more something to do differently next time.
These things I was talking about are little "sins." The tiny ooopses and "did I really say that" episodes of everyday life that make a person cringe. Little signals of where to improve one's behavior. It's a constant thing, though, when you're as clueless as I am.
Once again your timing is impeccable! I needed to read this - today! Thank you Jason ❤️
Thanks, Pamela! I believe there's a synchronicity that connects us all, if we just tune into it.
Agree 100%
Powerful stuff... personal and hits home. Those shy kids are shy for a reason. No regrets please it's all a learning curve and cure. Wonderful art as always! I find regrets, in my understanding to be very limiting and stopping me from breathing. I feel I should write a poem about it. This has inspired me. If I go deep into thinking of regrets it gets debilitating. There's a reason always right? Love this post.
Thanks, I hope you do write that poem!
Regrets will be there, what's important is that you don't let them anchor you to the past. We must recognize that the past can't be changed - it's that which lets us live freely.
I agree that we cannot be consumed with regret, but I do think we need to bring a little of our past with us to make the most of the current moment.
You nailed this one, dear friend!
Thank you! It boggles my mind how so many grown-ups (mostly men, frankly) love to claim they can't think of a single mistake or regret from their life.
That was beautiful!
Thanks so much, Kali!