Tag: triggers

‘Social Example’ a collage by Maggie Baker, 2001

Continuing the story of Lydia, Me and our Family of Three https://amzn.eu/d/99yW3Qk

Yesterday was a good day, until it wasn’t.

I received some bad news as a bolt out of the blue, and it hit hard.

It could be argued that I could have foreseen it coming, but I didn’t.

The calm, peaceful mind I’ve been cultivating was suddenly no more. I was angry.

I know anger is a negative emotion, and the teachings of Buddha tell me that it arises from self-cherishing delusions; having more regard for myself and my own needs than for those of others.

I do accept this, in principle. In practice, yesterday my anger arose and was a long time abating.

As I continue to learn how to train my mind – and my heart – anger is something that I need to and will address. I’m going for growth.

Today, on my walk with Lydia, I am still aware of anger. It feels like it is pervading my whole body.

I have concerns that Lydia will pick up on this, but she doesn’t seem to have done.

We are in a quiet spot with no immediate triggers. Lydia is calmer today than she has been on this same walk for some time.

She walks to heel with a loose lead most of the way, and I reinforce this with food rewards and praise.

It rains a little bit but neither of us minds. Then the sun comes out.

I’m going to visit friends this afternoon. It will be another good day. And this time I believe the good feeling will stay, at least for longer than it did yesterday.