Discomfort

My wife is far away, literally. Distance, whether emotional or physical, makes us uncomfortable. Thankfully this is a physical distance (she is in East Africa), nonetheless it adds a level of discomfort in our lives.

I have been thinking a lot about the things that make me uncomfortable. I'm pretty good with physical discomfort, but emotional discomfort is tough for me. Thinking about abstract things, while something I enjoy in principle, often brings me discomfort. There are times I feel myself pushing away from the things I love the most just to avoid emotional discomfort.

In the physical realm I have been enjoying more muscle workouts lately. I have moved away from the cardiovascular routine I used when I was losing weight to more weightlifting. This type of exercise brings a lot of pain, both immediate and longer lasting, but makes me physically stronger. I am seeing the fruits both in my strength and body shape.

Applying the idea of physical exercise to emotional is another thing. I generally have not equated the two, but I am starting to think I need to apply the principles of my physical routine to emotional things. Possibly, instead of running from the things that make me uncomfortable, maybe I need to sit in them and build my strength. Maybe the discomfort of emotional work is the strengthening of the soul.

On another note, I passed another birthday this past weekend. Last year I spent the day in Kenya with some really beautiful people. It really helped me search my soul and gain strength. This year I spent it alone, working in my yard and watching racing. Both were good experiences for my spirit, and I can only look forward to continued strengthening in the days to come.