Just like every other word you speak, whining is a choice. You select the words that come out of your mouth and you give it texture with sound, tone, and physical expression. 

If you choose to whine about your difficulties, that’s your decision. But own it as your decision. It’s not an accident that happens to you.

At age 21, I dreamed of writing epic novels inspired by C. S. Lewis. In the twenty some years since I first dreamed that dream, have I written a single novel? Heck no. 

And why? Simple: Fear. 

I wanted to share something that matters today. Something real. There’s enough fluff on the internet already. 

I’m actively limiting my social media exposure right now. I find that comparisons and negativity are infectious, and I don’t need any of it. While FOMO is real and being “in the know” is exciting, I can’t seem to clear the opinions and negativity out of my mind fast enough. 

I’ve seen dozens of article headlines about what we as a civilization are missing out on this past year due to COVID-19. Human touch, human interaction, exercise, comfort, conflict resolution, you name it. 

As I type this, though, I’m thinking about one particular need: human proximity. I have a YouTube video open on my laptop playing an hour long loop of background noise from a coffee shop. People are talking, drinks are mixing, freezer doors are closing, chairs are scooting. And somehow this is all wonderful. 

Privilege, good fortune, and health can shelter us from experiencing the levels of sickness, pain, and loss that cause a person to lose hope.

I’ve struggled for years with disclosing personal details. I know, I’ve shared A LOT on social media already compared to many people. But when sharing comes easily, you can say a lot without disclosing everything. 

We all (?) have dreams of becoming someone who is loved, admired, appreciated, and respected. To be valued for who we are and for what we do – when we are doing what matters to us most – is the dream. 

If you’re like me, you’ve read dozens of books and articles about purpose while you search for the reason you exist. It’s a question everyone faces at some point. Some people find answers, some people give up the search, and still others are perpetually searching or waiting. 

Have you ever met one of those people who yells when they speak emphatically? You have now. I never considered my emphatic speaking as yelling because I was just showcasing how strongly I felt. 

It’s a simple statement that requires pause to consider. I heard Seth Godin say this on an old podcast this week.