Читать книгу The Little Book of Letting Go - Hugh Prather - Страница 27

If a book or movie begins with happy scenes and cheery voices, we know something bad is about to happen. In every life a little sunshine must fall—but not for long. Notice that the very fact that things start going our way spurs us to worry.

From sore experience we learn that what we desire most can hurt us most. Many athletes are unable to live up to the expectations generated by a huge contract. Books tell the tragic stories of lottery winners, rock stars, movie stars, and other celebrities. Tabloid news shows and tabloid newspapers are filled with the devastating effects of power, wealth, and fame on individuals who attain them. Oddly enough, many of the fairy-tales and children's stories that were read to us for enjoyment recount the ironic outcomes of granted wishes.

Even in everyday conversation people say, “Be careful what you ask for—you just might get it.” Think of the implications of this statement: The special advantages with which you might start your life—good looks, good immune system, natural talent, inherited wealth, or something else—are untrustworthy. Yet the extras you hope and pray for are even more untrustworthy!

Our problem is not that we don't look danger and irony in the face. We stare trance-like at the world's threatening visage. What we do not question is the value of this way of looking, the actual benefit to us of a worried perception.