Cool Breezes of Perspective – Anderson Connect

Oh, the heat has been surreal this summer indeed, challenging to handle in moments, making it difficult to remember that in a relatively few short months we may actually be longing for the sun’s warmth once again. Ah such a metaphor for life, isn’t it? As dedicated students, you undoubtedly find yourselves at times sweltering under the pressure of juggling studies, family, work, and myriad responsibilities, desperately trying to seek out a shady spot for reflection and relief.

This month’s Anderson Connect is dedicated to bringing a little breeze of cool and perspective to you – a lightness and remembrance of how you can affect the weather of your life. It’s true, at times we are all called to endure Mother Nature, colleagues, friends, strangers, or circumstances that test us. In the midst of it all we must however find a way to fan ourselves, pour something refreshing over ice, and know we have precisely what it takes to chill out, overcome and, yes, even find a way to laugh, together.

Today’s read is approximately 4 minutes.

Inside this Edition:

• A Thought to Ponder
• A Short Story to Inspire
• 1 Short Video to Motivate

A Thought to Ponder

“I’ll tell you how I handle stress. I say, ‘This too shall pass’. You’ve got to try to stay cool and admit when you’re wrong and tell them when you’re right.”
— Helen Thomas, Reporter and Author

A Short Story to Inspire

Once upon a time there was a farmer whose horse ran away. All the neighbours came around that evening and said, “That’s too bad.” And the farmer said, “Maybe.” The next day the horse came back and brought seven wild horses with it. And all the neighbours came around and said, “That’s great, isn’t it?” And the farmer said, “Maybe.”

The next day his son, who was attempting to tame one of these horses, was riding it, was thrown and he broke his leg. The neighbours came around again that evening and said, “Well, that’s too bad, isn’t it?” And the farmer said, “Maybe.”

The day after, the conscription officers came to the farmer’s home looking for people to enlist in the army to fight in the war. They rejected his son because he had a broken leg. And, once again, all the neighbours came around that evening and said, “Well, isn’t that wonderful?” And the farmer said, “Maybe.”

Moral of the Story: Do not be quick to label the events of your life; ‘good’ and ‘bad’ are relative and, in a particular moment, may not be understood in relation to the larger picture. Remain open; let life flow; trust that all is unfolding for your highest good in the end.  

*Story attributed to Alan Watts, edited for clarity. 

1 Short Video to Motivate:

Stayin’ Cool | A Mickey Mouse Cartoon | Disney Shows – a great ole video clip to make you laugh and remember to chill, no matter.

We wish you iced tea, fave-flavour popsicles, cleansing breaths, wildly windy, wise moments to take the edge off the heat within, and in your moments. And remember, should you ever need support from any member of our Anderson family, we are always here to help you and ensure that your educational experience and career vision always feel on track as you take your life to new levels.

Stay cooooool, always,

~ Your Anderson Team