The not so pretty truth

I have written about this skill before, but I need it tonight.

STOP

It is really “simple” skill… but I dont want to use it… It feels uncomfortable and wrong. It feels like I am giving in… But what I am giving in is exactly where I need to be.

S: Stop… Physically stop. Put the phone down. Shut your mouth. Take your fingers off the knife. Freeze.

T: Take a step back… Literally or figuratively… Physically or emotionally distance yourself from this moment. Walk into another room.

O: Observe… Look at what is happening in this moment. Are you spiraling? Are you yelling? Are you hurting yourself? Really look… Recognize your demons. Name them…. Is it wise to say these words? Is it wise to use this substance? Is it right to physically hurt yourself? Recognize yourself.

P: Proceed with caution… Proceed with wisemind… Proceed with grace. Pick up the phone and call the crisis line. Text your team. Breathe… Choose to do the right thing, not the easy.

I am angry. I am hurt… If I stop and step away they will think they won the fight. I will feel out of control… I will realize I am struggling and will be embarrassed…

You are angry. You are hurt… If you stop and step away you will have won. You will not regret saying those mean things. You will not look at your arm tomorrow with shame. You will realize you are struggling and be embarrassed… But you will also recognize your strength.

You will remember this moment. It will give you power. It will make it a tiny bit easier next time.

I don’t care if you have Borderline Personality or just woke up on the wrong side of the bed… This skill could change the world.