the catalyst

January 3rd, 2005

Why drink alcohol? Why take drugs? Why do people say they are "having a good time" when they're "partying", which implies some degree of intoxication? Is it not escape? Escape from the meaningless or depressing or downright sad existence which meets us every morning. Some drink to feel the alcohol, others just drink to gain the artificial phychological impression of being under the influence, that which they exert on themselves in the spirit of the moment. What is it all for? To not be where they are at this precise moment, to not be who they are right here right now. To be different, to be elsewhere. To escape to more fashionable thoughts, to feel "free". Emotional discharge takes on many forms. It can be sports, it can be chemicals as mentioned, it can be yoga or tai chi. Whatever the form, the goal is to restore a balance to the mind. The mind suffers with imbalance, we must rid ourselves of it. How often do you hear people say they "feel better" when they're doing something specific or they're in a certain place? What does it mean to "feel better", is it not an expression of relief? One way or another we all feel it, there's something not quite sitting right, only the subconscience really knows but we can feel it.

I don't drink, when I do it's not to intoxicate myself and in any case it's sporadic. I don't do yoga (maybe I should), I don't do drugs. But I've found my catalyst. The one thing that dislodges the obstacle at the choke point. That discharges the negative emotions and restores balance. It's writing. Right here. It's not always topical but the tone matches the mood. I don't know why writing makes a difference but it makes you see things from a different angle, helps to move on from a problem area. If you don't like getting drunk, try it.

:: random entries in this category ::

3 Responses to "the catalyst"

  1. Erik says:

    It's true; writing does miracles. Though I'm probably not the right person to be commenting on this; seeing as I'm in and out of depression.

    If you ever feel you need to replace writing with talking, I'm always here!

  2. Shelley says:

    There's also drinking purely for the appreciation of the craft of making alcohol (my schtick). :D

  3. numerodix says:

    Yeah but you have to actually like alcohol to enjoy making it, I sure wouldn't bother..