It is easy to be swept away by some overwhelming feeling, so it’s helpful to remember that any stressful feeling is like a compassionate alarm clock that says, “You’re caught in the dream.” Depression, pain, and fear are gifts that say, “Sweetheart, take a look at what you’re thinking right now. You’re living in a story that isn’t true for you.” Caught in the dream, we try to alter and manipulate the stressful feeling by reaching outside ourselves. We’re usually aware of the feeling before the thought. That’s why I say the feeling is an alarm clock that lets you know there’s a thought that you may want to do The Work on. And investigating an untrue thought will always lead you back to who you really are. It hurts to believe you’re other than who you are, to live any story other than happiness. 

Reality is always kinder than the stories we tell about it.

Byron Katie —Loving What Is (p. 8)

Sometimes you discover an author at the exact perfect time for your life. For me, discovering Byron Katie and her work had an enormous impact on my life. So much of our thinking is nothing more than mental toxicity. We tell ourselves elaborate stories that have nothing to do with reality and then we believe them. We believe our stories—and act out our stories—more than the reality we are surrounded by.

Our egos are so convincing! They would rather keep us trapped in our own misery than living a life full of happiness. Reality truly is always kinder than the stories we tell about it.

Are there any stories you’re telling yourself about your reality today?

Have a blessed day.

Peace and Love,

~Travis

PS. You can learn more about Byron Katie at The Work.