Posts Tagged With: the Temptations

Day 2603: Metaphors

Posted on February 16, 2020 by Ann Koplow

As an English literature major and a clinician practicing narrative therapy, I often notice metaphors, including thinly veiled ones:

If you read carefully that comic strip by Levni Yilmaz, you’ll also discover cognitive distortions including shoulds, emotional reasoning, labeling, and blaming.

Do you see any metaphors in my other captured images from yesterday?

I wonder if it’s a metaphor that on this Presidents’ Day weekend my phone and my laptop are not communicating and are refusing to share images with each other. Maybe it’s a metaphor that I’m working harder to create these posts, starting on my phone and then completing my daily blog on my laptop.

Nevertheless, it’s easy enough to share this metaphor-filled song, performed by The Temptations and UB40:

I look forward to any metaphors, similes, or other figures of speech in your comments, below.

Thanks to all who helped me create this “Metaphors” post, including YOU!

Categories: personal growth, photojournalism, Psychotherapy | Tags: "The Way You Do the Things You Do", cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive distortions, Levni Yilmaz, Narrative Therapy, Presidents' Day, Tales of Mere Existence, the Temptations, UB40, USA politics 2020 | 15 Comments

Day 2316: How to get ready

Posted on May 5, 2019 by Ann Koplow

Two nights ago, I sang my original song “I Left the House Before I Felt Ready” (and if you’re ready to see that Open Mic performance, it’s in yesterday’s post).

As I was getting ready to write today’s blog post, I thought it might be useful to share some ideas about how to get ready (even when you don’t FEEL ready).

Look up, look down, look all around.

Notice any possible danger in your immediate vicinity and “look for the helpers” (thanks to Mr. Rogers).

Take a couple of precious moments, here and there, to reflect.

Take your personal medicine, as prescribed.

Remember that you can always take a rest, if you need one.

When you’re in the dark, reach out for somebody.

Remember that there are always new prizes to win and if you miss out on one, don’t have a cow.

Take the next achievable step, even in the midst of uncertainty.

Recognize your options, even when it looks like curtains.

Remember that new and unforeseen things are around every corner. If you’re ready to play with them, maybe they’ll even be fun!

Read what you need to get ready.

Keep in touch with your inner child but also remember you can throw an F-bomb, when appropriate.

Remember that you’re the expert on when you’re ready.
Hydrate.

Ready for a song about getting ready?

Now I’m going to get ready to leave the house and see Avengers: Endgame. No matter how and when I’m ready, that movie will be playing somewhere, nearby.

How to get ready to leave a comment for this blog? Just do it!

Ready for some gratitude? Thanks to all who helped me create today’s post and — of course! — to YOU.