In world-renown and controversial Canadian clinical psychologist and professor, Dr. Jordan Peterson's final chapter of 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos, he recommends the following prescription:
Rule 12: Pet a cat when you encounter one on the street.
Be grateful for the good things in a world where suffering can seem deafening. Be alert to the unexpected beauty of life. In doing so, this moment of experiencing a sparkling crystal in the darkness, you do your part to be an antidote to chaos.
Regardless of your perspective on Dr. Peterson, I encourage you too to pet a cat when you encounter one on the street. And if you're allergic or phobic, embody the sentiment. Smell a wildflower. Stare up at the clouds and admire sunrises and moonbeams. Savor a cup of tea. Send your compliments to the chef if you've enjoyed a meal. Dance when opportunities arise. Sink your toes in the sand. Dig your hands into the earth. Dare to feel.
I always do. And you know what? These seeming side-quests have never once detracted an iota of joy or endorphinic release from my life.
Find joy in the present. Be where your feet are.
Don't skip to the next page.
Don't go back to the previous page.
Pay attention to the page you're on.
This is the very best way to enjoy the story.
There is no guarantee of tomorrow. Life comprises all of the little things.
Seek the extraordinary in the ordinary.
We are not granted an infinite number of heartbeats.
We have a finite number of breaths.
Spend the currency of your time wisely.
Meanwhile, I shall continue to adhere strictly to Rule #12.
If you're interested in bolstering your psychological immune system, and unlocking the mysteries behind the other eleven invaluable and practical life-lessons from the fascinating mind of Dr. Peterson, I invite you to pick up a copy for your reading leisure and pleasure by clicking here.
Comments