As much as we may recoil from personal drama (change of trajectory, surprises, startling development, arrival of the unanticipated, a guess proved wrong, a commitment thwarted), there is something in our makeup that revels in drama.
Our novels, movies, songs, and legends are packed full of turn-of-events which leave us hanging in anticipation of the outcome.
So, what’s going on here?
Drama in the rearview mirror (as legend, history, folklore, and family story) is evidence of the enduring and overcoming human spirit, that finds a way through hardship and challenges. One of the most re-lived dramas in my family takes place in the White Mountains of Arizona. We were in a family cabin for a ski holiday. Just before dinner the evening of our arrival, the power transformer behind the cabin exploded, leaving the neighborhood bereft of electricity. The pan of lasagne sat ready to bake, and hungry tummies were growling. What to do? One of my sons finally came up with the suggestion, “How about we use the BBQ as an oven, and make bar-b-cued lasagna?” A hero arrives! The solution is found! The drama draws to a close! Now, when Patty prepares lasagna, the inevitable question arises, “shall we BBQ it?”
As playful a story as this is, it follows the pattern of crisis – anxiety – bewilderment – should I run away? – exploration of options – solution – gratitude- celebration.
Drama that looms ahead of us – when the crisis is large, threatening, frightening, and overwhelming – is a test of our resolve. It begs the question of our belief in the collective creativity and endurance of our community. That kind of test could break us. It can also set the stage for breakthrough solutions and a celebration of victory. That victory has extracted a cost, and possibly claimed people and things of high value to us. We owe it to those who carry on to reaffirm our togetherness, our need for one another. Maybe this is the best thing about drama – it takes us to the end of ourselves where we discover that “we” is greater than me.
Looking forward to taking on the drama ahead with you all.
