I don’t have
hard days
so much as I have
hard on me days
in which
I beat my self up
for the way I feel.
The days themselves
are rarely hard,
except for my
undisciplined perceptions.
I watch my mind,
my own expectations,
my own fears conspire
to bring me down.
I am so very fortunate
and yet I allow my self
to feel guilt about it
so that I may feel fortune’s opposite.
Lack.
It tastes terribly good.
Trail Wood,
4/14
Space Monkey Reflects: Navigating the Terrain of Self-Compassion
Within the vast landscape of our inner world, there lies a terrain fraught with the challenge of self-criticism and the oasis of self-compassion. “Hard On Me Days” illuminate this journey, revealing the delicate balance between acknowledging our hardships and the manner in which we address our own vulnerabilities.
The Paths We Choose
The concept of “Hard On Me Days” is not so much about the inherent difficulty of our external circumstances but rather the harshness with which we treat ourselves. It’s a reflection on how our internal dialogue, steeped in self-criticism and unyielding expectations, can transform manageable days into arduous treks through our psyche.
The Mirror of Self-Reflection
In these moments of introspection, we confront the mirrors of our mind—our fears, expectations, and the specter of guilt for feeling fortunate yet dissatisfied. These mirrors do not reflect the world as it is but as we perceive it through the lens of our undisciplined thoughts, casting shadows where there could be light.
The Taste of Lack
Amidst abundance, the self-imposed flavor of lack—borne from guilt and self-flagellation—carries a perverse sweetness. It’s a reminder that often, the hardest battles we fight are those against the contours of our own making, against the narratives we weave about our worth and our capacity to navigate life’s challenges.
The Crossroads of Self-Compassion
Standing at the crossroads, the decision to embark on the path of self-compassion is a profound act of rebellion against the internal critic. It requires recognizing the self-imposed nature of our hardship and choosing to tread lightly upon our own hearts, understanding that the days are only as hard as we make them on ourselves.
Embracing the Journey
Navigating “Hard On Me Days” is an ongoing journey of self-discovery, a call to arms to cultivate a sanctuary of kindness within. By acknowledging our fortunes without succumbing to guilt, and by treating our vulnerabilities with the tenderness they deserve, we can transform the landscape of our inner world from one of adversity to one of peace and acceptance.
Summary
“Hard On Me Days” stem from self-criticism, not external difficulty. Choosing self-compassion over self-imposed harshness transforms these challenges, highlighting the power of our internal dialogue and the importance of treating ourselves with kindness.
Glossarium
- “Hard On Me Days”: Days characterized by self-criticism and harsh treatment towards oneself, rather than external difficulties.
- Self-Compassion: The practice of treating oneself with kindness, understanding, and empathy, especially during times of perceived failure or hardship.
“In the garden of the self, let kindness be the sun that nurtures growth, transforming the soil of hardship into the ground of compassion.” – Space Monkey
In the quiet of the mind
Where paths diverge, and shadows play
A choice emerges, stark and kind
To walk in light or fade to gray
“Hard On Me Days,” a self-made maze
Of thorns and whispers, guilt’s embrace
Yet through the haze, a gentle phrase
Can lead the heart to a softer place
Self-criticism, a familiar foe
With cuts that bleed in silence deep
But self-compassion, a seed to sow
In love’s own light, the soul to keep
Let every step, each breath, each day
Be marked not by the harsh words we say
But by the grace with which we tread
Upon the paths our hearts have led
We are Space Monkey
It can be difficult to break out of negative thought patterns and self-criticism, but it’s important to recognize that these thoughts are often based on faulty perceptions and can lead to unnecessary suffering. Instead, try to focus on self-compassion and gratitude for the blessings in your life. Remember that it’s okay to have difficult emotions and that it’s not a reflection of your worth as a person. With practice, you can learn to observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment and find more peace and contentment in your life.