Just Dropped In…

Some of you of a certain age will remember the song by Kenny Rogers and The First Edition, titled Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In). This was essentially an acid rock song that alluded to an LSD trip. Back then, such music was cutting edge, counter-cultural, and therefore, popular with people in my age group at the time.

I was not one to use drugs, especially psychedelic drugs, but the music was interesting, so I liked it. Back then, lyrics were not terribly important to me if I liked the beat and the innovation of the music. Also, it seems funny as I look back at the lead singer, Kenny Rogers, who went on to perform more traditional music, including country ballads and contemporary music that brought him much more fame and fortune than hard rock music.

But I digress! The point of today’s reflection is that the idea of periodically checking in on our own condition is a very healthy practice. No, not with the use of psychedelic drugs or hallucinogens, but with full awareness and mindful thinking.  

I challenge clients to take a little two-minute break during the day to honestly ask oneself, “What is going on with me right now?” Am I feeling sad, angry, happy, fearful, resentful, wistful, etc. Having determined what that feeling is, why am I feeling this?

We often neglect such check-ins because we get caught up in the day-to-day activities that demand external attention and energy. I suggest that we make it a regular practice to do some self-check-ins to see indeed “what condition our condition is in”.

It is a good, simple process, though it takes practice, and complete emotional honesty to really drill down and determine what we are feeling, and why. There are not always clear reasons for what we are feeling, and that is OK. That just means we need to continue to be aware of what things are affecting our emotions, and often, our behaviors.

So, periodically each day, “just drop in” to those emotions and see what condition you are in at that time!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the ability to become reflective of our spirit and emotions, Amen