Maira Kalman, in her wonderful book The Principles of Uncertainty, poses many pithy questions, including the question in the title of today’s blog.
How do you not go mad? I do not go mad by
- sharing my thoughts and feelings,
- recognizing that “this too shall pass,”
- looking for the humanity in others,
- tolerating uncertainty,
- sticking to my principles,
- reaching out for help when I need it,
- working with people who are considered mad by some and realizing that they are often not mad,
- creating blog posts and songs,
- doing what I love,
- seeking shelter when I need it,
- avoiding the news,
- spending time with people I trust and adore,
- pausing to take a breath,
- moving forward,
- not sweating the small stuff,
- looking at the flowering trees in the spring,
- following signs and directions as best I can,
- reading wonderful books,
- going on long walks,
- listening to music,
- calming down,
- focusing on the funny,
- letting go of worry,
- recognizing that some mysteries will not be solved in my lifetime,
- being in the moment, and
- taking photos, wherever I am.
Yesterday was my friend Jenn’s birthday, so I did not go mad by texting her those last three photos.
Here‘s what comes up on YouTube when I search for “how do you not go mad”:
One of my photos …
… inspires me to share my favorite Rolling Stones song:
Finally, I do not go mad by expressing my gratitude to all who help me create these daily posts and — of course! — to YOU!