May 30, 2022

On holding things lightly

I used to run with Dad. (Still do, if we're together and well.)

One thing he taught me was what to do with my hands while running: not to clench fists, or let wrists flap around, but allow my fingertips to close naturally.

Imagine you're holding sheets of paper, he'd say.
Don't crumple them, but don't drop them, either.

I thought of this when discussing being 'in the moment' with Laura.

Hold the present too tightly and it crumples into anxiety. Too loosely, and my attention slips away entirely.

I'm aiming to hold it lightly.