Эксперт призывает пересмотреть понятие ответственности ради сохранения душевного равновесия

Stop being so responsible Published 9:59 am Monday, August 24, 2026 Just a few weeks ago, I nearly drowned. My wife, Patty, and I were playing in the Gulf of Mexico (America) off the coast of Casey Key, a little-known barrier island between Sarasota and Fort Myers in Florida. Hurricanes Helene and Milton had changed the shoreline significantly. The owners of the oceanfront properties had to deal with several feet of sand covering everything, but they were only allowed to push the sand back to the high tide line. That created a bit of a cliff one had to descend to get to the water. The floor of the ocean was covered with ridges so that it was hard to walk. We were up to our necks in the water when a rogue wave hit, knocking me off my feet. I became disoriented underwater but popped up to call my wife’s name. I realized exactly what was happening. I thought I was drowning. I love the water but swim like a rock. Also, I had some orthopedic issues, and it probably affected my balance. Patty, who is a good swimmer, raced to me, but another young woman reached me first. I somehow regained my footing. In a matter of seconds, I became as exhausted as if I ran a marathon. Part of me does not like telling this story because I admit to not being able to swim. Also, having a brush with death was traumatic, especially since I had some health issues pop up the last couple of years and I was starting to feel my age. Stay with me. I am retired, but have several things to occupy my time: walking, household improvements, guitar playing, making vintage lighting, and writing. Though I enjoy all of these things, at times I feel pulled in too many directions. So, I backed off of walking and writing for a while. It was actually good to focus on one thing and make significant headway before moving on to something else. I was a good temporary arrangement, but not good for the long term. The things I had set aside were two of the things I enjoyed most. They brought balance to my life. Responsibility is generally a great quality. Sometimes I feel each emerging generation has lost a little bit in the responsibility department. But can responsibility be a bad thing? Most certainly, if it keeps you from the things that breathe life into your soul. Granted, there are always things we should do, but there are also some things we think of as optional that may be essential to our inner health. These are the things that keep us healthy and balanced. I am not encouraging irresponsibility. I am encouraging balance. Think about the things you should do. Pare it down to those things that are the most essential. Now think about a couple of things that refresh you and make them a regular part of your life too. The scales will always be trying to shift, and living a somewhat balanced life will take continuous adjustment. Every now and then a rogue wave of life may try to sweep you off your feet. What makes you feel alive? What makes you a better person? What brings peace, love, and joy to your heart?