Resiliency means recognizing that chaos occurs in our own mind and we can react accordingly. In other words: Chaos is not the problem, it’s how we respond to it that makes the difference between balance and imbalance.
– Chip Weiner
Quote Source: Thank you Tony Caselli: “Some Days Don’t You Just Wonder”
When I was younger, I’m pretty sure chaos was considered just a “bad thing”, so it’s been fascinating to see the science of chaos evolve to the point where we now understand better the IMPORTANCE of chaos – well, that zone on the edge between chaos and order anyway.
For example, an epileptic seizure is actually a loss of chaos in brain activity – it’s kind of a wave of regularity sweeping away chaos! Our brains function best it seems on that edge of chaos zone. Similarly, a heart beat rhythm which is totally, exactly, regular is NOT a good thing – in fact, its the sign of a failing heart. We need a high level of “heart rate variability” to be able to adapt and respond moment by moment. Our hearts too are best in that zone on the edge of order and chaos – not total chaos however! That’s still a “bad thing”!
LikeLike
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Bob. I agree…
LikeLike
This sounds like a philosophy class I once took…maintain the Mean, happiness depends on ourselves, etc. I understand what Chip is saying and agree that we are in control of how we react, but I’m not sure I agree that chaos is just some internal perception that we create ourself. It’s a nice concept though.
LikeLike
Hi Julie. Yes, the environment may actually be chaotic. However, my experience (lot’s of practice) is that when I “label” (as Meg states) it as a train wreck, usually the outcome is the same.
LikeLike
This is so true. For me I find that not labelling it is the start to approaching it calmly. By labelling it as a ‘catastrophe’ it becomes one. By approaching it with a sense of ‘nothingness’ it becomes just another moment in another day.
LikeLike
Thanks for sharing Meg. My challenge is to do exactly what you state – “start by approaching it calmly.” Right there with you.
LikeLike
Interesting discussion, especially Bob’s comment about the zone on the edge between chaos and order.
I can’t agree that chaos is “all in the mind.” Yes, we are in charge of the attitude we take and the responses we make to the environment around us. And sometimes what I perceive as chaos may actually be more orderly than I think.
But chaos can be a reality. Chaos in the socio-economic and political realms should not be taken lightly.
LikeLike
Hi John. The reason I posted the quote was exactly that – I have been experiencing a certain degree of chaos. And seeking a better approaching in dealing with it. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
LikeLike
Much of life is an illusion!! (My own quote.)
LikeLike
So philosophical Joyce!
LikeLike
Wow — insightful comments. My thanks to Dave and all the commentators. I believe there are three types of chaos.
First, there is the true chaos. A violent transformation from the existing conditions to new and unexpected conditions. Because this change is violent and unexpected, many people either aren’t aware of the impending change or they want to avoid facing the problem. Even if you are aware of the impending change, you probably don’t know what to do about it.
Second, there is illusionary chaos. This chaos is due to the false beliefs that many people unwittingly used to guide their life. In this case there is no actual chaos. The problem is that people are unable to interpret the events around them. The only chaos is the confusion that exists in the minds of people due to their false beliefs.
Third, there is imposed chaos. This chaos comes from the powers that be (TPTB). In seeking to impose their will on the general population, TPTB create what are known as false flag events. These events, attributed to other groups, frighten the people and allow TPTB to impose their will on the people. A recent such event was the 9-11 tragedy.
LikeLike
I never understood chaos to have 3 types. I learned something from you today Charles. Thank you.
LikeLike
I agree. Chaos is inevitable. It is how one reacts to the situation and what they do from that point forward.
LikeLike
Thanks Liz…I agree.
LikeLike
Reblogged this on Carlo Favaretti.
LikeLike
The response to chaos is TOTALLY our choice to make! Hooray for this post,David!
LikeLike
We’re aligned (again)!
LikeLike