Three Little Words

Despite a long to do list I am enjoying a friend's company while lounging on the couch and watching the Olympic recap. It's cut together for maximum jerking of tears and I am, as usual, an easy target. When Kerri Walsh announces her former coach's motto, "Breathe. Believe. Battle." my lower lip is bound to wobble.

It's no secret over here that I've been having a little trouble. No need to worry about it, really. Not a killer. Not nothing either, though. I'm disappointed not to be able to see landmarks as I'm grappling with some craft and career decisions. I'm looking ahead and seeing great things while twisting my ankle on this cobblestone street in front of me over and over again.

Walsh reminded me of something, though. When I was in school in London the woman in this picture was a 12-year-old girl. Her mother and I studied together. Our voice and speech teacher often admonished us to "Think. Breathe. Speak."

I used to write those three words at the top of journal entries, on scripts, even in the occasional email. It is, perhaps, the best advice I've ever heard. It applies, of course, to performing because you need to be centered and properly placed to be able to convey your message. It's got regular old life uses as well, though. I find myself in political discussions, in personal discussions, and in work situations where my patience and my intelligence are tested. When I think first and take a clear breath before I open my trap I'm more likely to do myself proud. It is easier when standing on that foundation to convey the message of my life.

I don't know what I'm going to do, I don't know what direction I'm going to take, but I do think I'm going to start writing a little something at the top of every page again.

Think. Breathe. Speak.