“Inner guidance is heard like soft music in the night by those who have learned to listen.” Vernon Howard

A few times a week I go for a jog or a walk. On the last stretch of my trail, I venture along this small country road that falls between rice paddocks. Recently, in autumn when the rice has grown to its fullest, almost ready for harvest, I notice that part of some paddocks has fallen.

On this particular morning after experiencing a night of some heavy rain the added weight of the rain on top of the already heavy rice grass caused some rice to topple. What is strange is that this wasn’t consistent across all the paddocks or even an entire one.

I thought if only on a clump of rice couldn’t handle the weight of the rain then perhaps like a domino effect if would push over the rice clump next to it and so on a so forth.

If in life we align ourselves too closely with our neighbour, with our friends, with the status quo, could the weight of one man’s trouble cause a rippling effect to others?

Too often we compare ourselves to others. We copy and do what others are doing. We look externally for direction and correct course. However, when things fall under pressure not only is one person affected but all of those that followed suit.

The lesson this leaves me is that it is okay to be close to others but in life, we need to take our advice and initiative to operate most efficiently to find deeper happiness. Following the crowd may not be the most beneficial paths for us to make.

Because like the rice bush that stands alone only it will be affected if it cannot handle its weight and when everyone else falls it will still be standing.

Further Reading and Resources 

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Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.” 

Addicted 2 Success: Motivation & Inspiration Website full of quotes and inspiring articles for entrepreneurs.

Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.

The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.

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