Wëijï, is the Chinese
word for crisis. The symbols that make the word translate to mean transition
point. In reality, it is a compound word with one symbol representing opportunity
and the other symbol representing danger. You see, the Chinese view crisis as a
two-edged sword that presents opportunity as well as danger.
Likewise, in our own
lives, the way we respond to crises can actually endanger us, such as when we
descend into prolonged despair, negative emotions or self-destructive
behaviors. But, we can also avail ourselves to opportunity by accepting the
challenge that such crises bring. In crisis
situations, life sometimes calls us to adjust our priorities, accept our losses
and adapt our thinking processes and beliefs.
I recall a
Northumberland folk tale about peacocks eating thorns in order to produce their
beautiful tail feathers. The story symbolizes that the harsh things we
learn to digest can lead us to our inner beauty.
Although struggling to
accept losses can give rise to many negative emotions, not all emotions experienced
as a result of a crisis need to be negative. Illness, loss of a loved one, depression,
trauma, unemployment stress, all represent examples of dreaded transitions that
issue compelling invitations for us to change—to begin a journey of self-renewal
and growth. When we are open, we can often find many blessings hidden in the
heart of tragedy.
Join me next week as I
discuss how crises can provide us with the lessons we need to become more
resilient human beings.
Dr. Eileen Wynne, PhD