ATL: Separate what you feel from what’s real

My son and I have probably watched the movie ATL a dozen times, and each time we always laugh when Uncle George tells Rashad to separate what he feels from what’s real. It’s a somber moment in the movie, and Z and I are prone to inappropriate laughter, but I think it’s deeper than that. We laugh because Uncle George has managed to use just 7 words to sum up a complex human tendency, and let’s face it, Uncle George has been a clown the entire movie. Yet, this time Uncle George is right and we know it.

I heard Uncle George all week. Well, if I’m honest, I’ve heard him for two. I haven’t felt like writing. Not about Asia, and certainly not about this important project that I must get done by August 1.

So what do I feel and what’s real?

Feeling: Tired

What’s real?:  Yes, I should probably get a little more rest and work for shorter periods of time so I’m fresh when I work on my project. I have moments throughout the day when I feel refreshed and well-rested; I need to use them wisely. The board of health will not shut us down, will it?

Feeling: Stress

What’s real?: Just like everyone else, I have a lot to do from housework and childrearing to 9 to 5 stuff, but I must put everything into perspective. If the house is a little dirty between now and August, I must look away.

Feeling:  Worried

What’s real?:  I can pull this off. I’ve done it before. Yes, I may screw this up, but I will do my best. That’s all that is required of me.

Yes, as hilarious as he may be, Uncle George is right. Whether you’re having negative feelings about a writing task the way I am or you feel betrayed by the girl you love like Rashad, the only way to think clearly about a situation (or a writing obligation) is to focus on what’s real.

Now if that doesn’t work, follow ATL’s other piece of sage advice: Fake it ‘til you make it. But that’s a blog post for another time.