Hang in there, camel

Last week I dragged my girlfriends to Powerbooks since I wanted to check out their annual sale. Whilst browsing the titles in the World Affairs section, M walks up to me, a book called Kokology in hand. Consulting the book in question, she says, Answer this for me, will you? You are riding a camel in the desert. You really feel tired and exhausted. What will you say to the camel who has been with you all throughout your journey in the desert?

I thought about the question for a good few seconds (and in my mind it evoked an image of me on a camel whilst I was patting the weary beast reassuringly) and I told M - Hmm I guess I'd say something like 'Hang in there, camel'.

She then gives me an analysis of my answer: The desert and camel theme symbolises the journey toward personal independence. Specifically, this scenario reveals your feelings about parting with a lover. Your answers show how you might react when the time comes to go your separate ways.

Whilst I realise that these Kokology stuff are in no way a reliable gauge of emotional intelligence, my answer still left me immensely pleased with myself. Who would've thought that beneath this thick cloak of negative vibes lay hidden a positive and optimistic person?! I'm very much surprised at how I can still afford to say things along the lines of Hang in there, camel despite being in this state of protracted limbo that has left me so directionless and, well, unsure. Nevermind if the analysis mostly pertained to romantic affairs; I believe it is relevant and translatable to other life situations as well.

I have nothing else left in my emotional arsenal but a healthy quantity of good thoughts that scream tomorrow will be better, and comfort in the knowledge that my present struggles will somehow romanticise my upgraded future.

I read this line off someone's blog and to this day it keeps ringing in my head: The trick is to keep going. Touché times 100.