SquarePeg Books

It is important, during times of stress, to pause,  and just fucking breathe.

I have to remind myself of that, a lot.

Truth be told, I tend to remind myself of it AFTER I’ve made a mistake in the “oh, shit” moment, but I suppose it’s important that I at least remembered to breathe at some point.

The “truth” of breathing has become more relevant in recent weeks. It’s felt a bit like an avalanche, but in slow motion. I can see some rocks coming and I manage to dodge, but then more that I either didn’t notice or thought I had more time to address LATER kinda just take aim at me.

And sometimes I can move. I can dodge. I roll a nat 20 to dodge, and all are amazed at my effortless handling of the situation.

Other times not so much. I haven’t rolled up any 1’s yet, and my luck points are giving me some nice bonuses, but I keep stubbing my toe, or hitting that spot on my elbow, or right on the shoulder so it stays sore forever.

One must take a moment. Pause. Breathe. Identify the real problem. Take a step back. Consider your options. Handle the problem.

It’s hard to pause in the middle of a panic, but it is necessary if I don’t want to end up flatter than Wile E. Coyote.