The squall that has been my life over the last few months is finally starting to quiet down. What has heartened me considerably is to hang my mind on constants–things like my Japanese paper lantern, the only piece of furniture I brought with me from New York.
I remember watching a video in college about a psychology experiment done with orphaned monkey infants. In the lab, some of them were given a metal statue that was intended to act as a sort of surrogate mother. Others were given the same metal statue, but covered in artificial fur to imitate their real mothers. And the last group was given nothing at all.
Not surprisingly, the monkeys with nothing fared the worst. They appeared to be in constant fear, huddling in corners and never moving past their immediate surroundings. The monkeys that had the metal statues explored their environment, bit by bit, but always came running back to see if their cold guardian was still watching over them. The monkeys that had the fur-covered surrogates spent long stretches of time holding onto these inanimate protectors. But they also spent many hours away from them. These monkeys were the most adventurous–running, climbing, and jumping about their environment. They intently inspected new objects they encountered and would even bring souvenirs back to where their “mothers” were, the place they came to consider home.
Could a simple piece of faux fur really make such a big difference? Well, why else do little children carry around blankets everywhere they go? To them, everything is new, exciting, and scary. But their blankies act as an emotional anchor to comfort them as they explore the unknown. I may be a grown man no longer in need of a favorite blanket, but I do have a favorite website, a favorite drink at Starbucks, and the soft comforting glow of my paper lantern–things which have helped me feel at home again.
Sometimes the winds of change may force you to let go of things you’ve come to treasure. But if you can hold onto a few anchors to keep from getting blown away amidst the gusts and gales, you’ll surely find your way home again.
Choose to Take the Journey 
I like the idea of “anchors.” I believe they can bring stability to a person who needs comfort.
Now that I think about it, I don’t think I have any anchors! I am the type who lives for change and I’m always looking for a new and exciting adventure!
I would have no problem selling my house and all my belongings to move away to Costa Rica to start a new life. LOL!
Great post, and I really like the concept.
Haha, I guess you have no need for anchors when you like getting swept away! I’ve actually been thinking about a similar idea off and on. It’s about how we should embrace our fear, our insecurity, our uncertainty, and enjoy the excitement that comes along with it.
Costa Rica is great. One of the few countries I would consider revisiting again.
Thanks for your compliment.
Pura Vida!
Your writing is just like a cup of exquisite tea.It has to taste in a suitable time.Can not take it too fast, it will burn and rush out all the tastes. but also can not let it cool down, it will become bitter and never taste the same. Reading you works just like following your heart flows… as active as like living in your life. some times It makes readers an upsurge of emotion, but some times, just make them calm down, just feeling the pace and finding the meaning of life in your words.
Nice Post.
Pinky, you are too kind. And your words, you sound like a modern Bruce Lee. Of course, no one compares to the inimitable Bruce Lee, but your comment does remind me of the way in which he gives advice :)
I appreciate your continued feedback. I have read and very much enjoy your blog. Short, sweet, and to the point.
Oh! I didnt know that Bruce Lee said something like that too…
I should have quote it then.
I just wrote down what I felt about your article.
I didn’t mean he said the same thing. I just meant your speaking style for that comment reminded me of him.