If you are distressed by anything external, the pain is not due to the thing itself, but to your estimate of it; and this you have the power to revoke at any moment
- Marcus Aurelius
External objects – We live in an age where an illuminated screen is our worst enemy. The screen is only getting smarter in its ways of deception and distraction. I suspect it is intentionally riling up my emotions given the content I am exposed to through my search history. These external outlets do nothing for my way of life but trigger negativity. I am thankfully aware of it. I can see how one can be vulnerable to its predatory behavior. The divisive landscape we dwell in today thrives of these sorts of results. Personally, I need to catch myself more often to avoid the useless negative messages provided by our “useful technologies”. Is this what they intended whenever they came up with this stuff. You can’t escape the screens in life. They’re everywhere dictating and predicting your every move. I will use this reflection to go about my day in a more constructive manner. I will appreciate clear judgements and find the love in humanity. I will look up at the blue sky in a breathtaking wonder in attempt to take in its vastness. Above all, I will recognize life as the ultimate gift and challenge. We must be aware of its beauty and ugliness to play its game appropriately.