Alive In Joy
Dispelling Drama
There are scores of people in the world who seem to be magnets for calamity. They live their lives jumping from one difficult situation to the next, surrounded by unstable individuals. Some believe themselves victims of fate and decry a universe they regard as malevolent. Others view their chaotic circumstances as just punishments for some failing within. Yet, in truth, neither group has been fated or consigned to suffer. They are likely unconsciously drawing drama into their lives, attracting catastrophe through their choices, attitudes, and patterns of thought. Drama, however disastrous, can be exciting and stimulating. But the thrill of pandemonium eventually begins to frustrate the soul and drain the energy of all who embrace it. To halt this process, we must understand the root of our drama addiction, be aware of our reactions, and be willing to accept that a serene, joyful life need not be a boring one.
Many people, so used to living in the dramatic world they create, feel uncomfortable when confronted with the prospect of a lifetime of peace and contentment. The drama in their lives serves multiple purposes. Upset causes excitement, prompting the body to manufacture adrenaline, which produces a pleasurable surge of energy. For those seeking affection in the form of sympathy, drama forms the basis of their identity as a victim. And when drama is familial, many people believe they can avoid abandonment by continuing to play a key role in the established family dynamic. The addiction to drama is fed by the intensity of the feelings evoked during bouts of conflict, periods of uncertainty, and upheaval.
Understanding where the subconscious need for drama stems from is the key to addressing it effectively. Journaling can help you transfer this need from your mind onto a benign piece of paper. After repeated writing sessions, your feelings regarding the mayhem, hurt feelings, and confusion often associated with drama become clear. When you confront your emotional response to drama and the purpose it serves in your life, you can reject it. Each time you consciously choose not to take part in dramatic situations or associate with dramatic people, you create space in your inner being that is filled with a calm and tranquil stillness and becomes an asset in your quest to lead a more centered life.
Hmm I cast my vote but it does not seem to have registered. My vote you ask, Other. It is possible this is you. The fact that you are asking others seems to point in that direction. But in the end it does not matter what others think. It is a question you yourself have to answer. Funny that this post comes at this particualar time for me though.
Like me, you tend to be drawn to people who need help. You do for others, and thus the people who NEED that help are drawn to YOU. Please do not mistake me. We do not do this a great deal, but it is something that we do. So yes, in some sense of your question, it is true. But certainly not to an extreme level. To be completely devoid of any drama is to not interact with people at all. We just have to carefully choose which ones we do involve ourselves in.
Actually, reading the article reminds me of my younger days when I was still in school, but what teenager doesnt have drama in thier lives? Since then, I can think of a few times when I myself can say yes to being addicted to drama. As for you though, both Drogan and Niles make good points. You, like me, help those that come to you for help, which many times happens to be in a dramatic time for them; and it is more a question you have to answer yourself. Do you feel you are addicted? Do you feel you seek out those situations? Or do you feel they just come to you without projecting a need for it?