The EASY Button

Staples made it famous: the EASY button!

This time of the year, nothing seems easy at all! My mind is full-blown chaos! Christmas shopping, holiday parties, those patients that HAVE to have that crown (diagnosed in June, of course) completed before December 31. REALLY???

Have you ever Googled the word “chaos?” Some interesting images become readily apparent, all of which depict what I feel my mind and emotions are going through. I feel that both the personal and professional goals I set are, as yet, still not finalized and 2014 is looming on the horizon. I don’t understand why we put such pressure on the calendar flip from one year to the next, but we do!

Then someone mentions that they are feeling the stress of the end of the year. “How do you stay so together? I am so stressed out right now!” And in that moment, I realize that I am not alone. I feel both connected and relieved at the same time. I guess, as they say, misery loves company.

In the midst of movement and chaos, keep stillness inside of you.
—Deepak Chopra

It is what we do. We search out stillness among chaos. We move forward when we sense we have no strength. We seek out (and find) connections. We celebrate the blessing of family and friends. Next thing we know, January 1 is upon us! The DAY OF RENEWAL! We spend that day organizing the disaster that December created, then begin the new year of goals and plans.

Be that as it may, there isn’t now, nor will there ever, be an EASY button for life. But let us pause and reflect for a moment: we can all admit that when we overcome the challenges and chaos that each day, month, and year bring, we feel a little happier and a little more appreciative. We feel a sense of accomplishment.

As you look forward to 2014, remember that HOPE springs eternal and good friends, good family and good wine can make any situation a little bit better. Bring on 2014! I’m ready!

Chaos is inherent in all compounded things. Strive on with diligence.
—Buddha

Colleen DeLacy, DDS, FAGD