A Case of the What Ifs

Mama, I don’t think we should leave the nest today.

Why not?

Well, what if I fly to the bird feeder and the cat eats me? Or what if the cat eats you?

Oh my goodness! Sounds like you woke up with A Case of The What Ifs!

The What Ifs?

It’s when the mind starts thinking of everything that could possibly go wrong.

Oh no . . . Is there any cure?

Yes in fact, there is! For every What If, all you have to do is look around and notice What’s Actually Happening Right Now.

What do you mean?

Well, can you tell me something that’s actually happening right now?

I see the sun shining.

Yes… And how does it make you feel?

Warm!

Anything else?

I feel the wind blowing my feathers! I never noticed that before!

Very good!

And I see you, Mama! And that makes my heart feel happy.

Aw, my heart feels happy to see you, too! There are always bad things that could happen. But if you spend all your time worrying, you’ll miss out on all the wonderful things that are actually happening right now!

And if that mangy cat does come around, I’ll already be paying attention to what’s happening, so we can just fly right back up to our nest!

Good thinking!

Thank you, Mama.

Of course, my Little Bird. Now let’s go get some breakfast!

-JLK