Definition vs. Connotation: The Art of Making Meaning
For quite some time now I've felt the tug of war between power and control on a rather consistent basis. At a deeper level, it all comes down to the basis of meaning. I've spent the last few years marveling at my own tendencies to blur the difference between the definition and the connotation of a thing because of my personal relationship with it as a result of experience.
Power: The ability to act or produce an effect. It exists independently of any exterior forces, and thus requires no authority over anything.
Control: The act of having power OVER something or someone.
Power is inherent; it comes from within us and is available for our use, whenever we see fit. Whether you focus it on a goal (drive), spread it across multiple variables (multitasking/distraction) or apply it towards a situation you don't want (Fear, worry, anxiety), we use our power all the time.
Control is a bit trickier. In some instances, knowledge and confidence levels can create the experience of control. Conversely, a perceived need for control often has roots in feelings of insecurity or inadequacy, thus relating to the need to feel in control to maintain a sense of order and safety. The "Need" part is where I would often find myself in a place of paralysis, which often led to resentment towards a situation that seemed unchangeable. Realistically I resented myself for not having the power to change the external circumstances; this took me out of flow, and put me in a space of panic, leaving me incapable of seeing the very solutions that could be utilized to create the change I so desperately felt I needed.
Constant reminders that presence, gratitude and acceptance make way for the level of calm necessary to change the frequency of power I operated at (worries are essentially prayers for stuff you DON'T want-still operating in my power). When you have a clear view of your own alignment, its much easier to shake off distractions.
Pay close attention to the times when you feel the most out of control; you just may find the greatest amount of power potential.
