Podcast: Play in new window | Download
I love the effect of surround sound when I’m watching a good movie. The noise and music bouncing off of the walls, pulsing through my body and in my ears, there’s magic in the way it expands the experience of sitting still in an otherwise quiet theater. To my rational mind, I know I’m suspending my disbelief in order to enter the story; it’s all made up, and I get that it’s playing against a giant white screen and can’t hurt me, or spontaneously make me do or be anything in that moment. Still, all the drama and noise adds a dimension of reality that stays with me long after I’ve left the movie. It makes for a great parallel in our own lives too. We’re constantly bombarded by drama and noise intended to manipulate the way we feel, which brings me to today’s question:
What’s the quality of your surround sound?
What’s the caliber of conversation you’re having with friends, peers and acquaintances? How are you speaking to yourself? What kinds of stories are you sharing and what’s being shared with you? Where is there unnecessary drama and darkness? Who’s lifting you up, supporting you, singing your praises?
The stories we immerse ourselves in say a lot about what we’ve been listening to and internalizing. They influence who we ultimately become.
Today, take notice of the sounds around you, paying close attention to what you’re taking in as well as putting out. Notice how often you hear messages affirming the best in you, and those that don’t. If you discover your soundtrack’s a downer, or your theme song feels more like a dirge, it’s time to cast some new players, honey!