Diogenes of Sinope, also known as Diogenes the Cynic (around 412–323 BC) teaches a lesson similar to my solar-powered fountain. The story is that when Alexander the Great came upon Diogenes basking in the sun and asked what he might do for the famous philosopher, Diogenes simply replied, "Stand out of my light". Alexander, instead of taking offence, was so genuinely impressed by this total indifference to power that he famously said, "If I were not Alexander, I would wish to be Diogenes."

We have a solar-powered fountain. It is such a powerful indicator of the influence of direct sunshine on how we flourish. As soon as anyone creates any kind of shadow, its cheerful streams descend to a sad trickle. I know we’ve spoken of radiators and drains many times – and even of mood-hoovers, or energy vampires. But what if we are sometimes the bearer of shadow?

Is there someone today that we could give more space to? Perhaps there’s someone we’d like to unburden our souls to, but we decide instead to talk to the dog or the cat or another kind of therapist. As P and I reach the end of our time together, there is a new honesty emerging. I’m in the way. I’m the shadow to her fountain. Not in any terrible way – it’s just time to move. That’s what grown-ups do. I’m looking forward to hearing of her flourishing, but, to be honest, even more, I’m looking forward to finding new connections who will stand out of my light, and will be filled with delight when I flourish.

I ask again, “Who could you give a little more space to?” Stand out of their light and let them shine.

Lex

A Moodscope member