I can admire the “can do” spirit. I usually do it from afar. I, of course, am a master practitioner of the “no can do” spirit. You may have seen the fictionalized version of me in the movie Aliens. I’m talking about Pvt. Hudson of the Space Marines portrayed spot on by Bill Paxton.
I’ve long extolled the virtues of negativity. So much so that I’ve achieved guru status.
Today I wish to bring you news of a story you may have missed. It wasn’t exactly the top story of the latest news cycles. But it does offer a rare glimpse into the murky and mysterious world of positive thinking.
Tony Robbins, a motivational speaker, held a “firewalk” during an “Unleash The Power Within” seminar. Almost two dozen people were reportedly injured after attempting to traverse hot coals which are a metaphor for overcoming life’s difficulties.
Traditional negativity theory has it a bit different. It states that fire is “hot” and “hot water burn baby!”
At least 21 people were injured. Some injuries were described as “minor” while some participants likely had second and third degree burns.
I’m not a fan of shameless self-promotion but at my events participants are invited to squeegee their toes in rich luxurious carpet in the Die Hard style. I’m not sure what metaphor that illustrates, but one thing is certain. It is much less hot. And it’s a lot easier. And takes a lot less effort. And we all know that true greatness always comes from much less effort.
At Tony Robbins events the firewalk activity is not required. Seminar attendees are welcome to remain in their La-Z-Boy chairs and watch TV while eating their potato chips and drinking their 48-ounce Mega Super Gulps of soda if they so desire.
Positivity is risky.
Hey, I went to a Tony Robbins seminar once and walked on hot coals. I didn’t get burned, either. I’m surprised that the coal walking happened on the first day, because Robbins made a big deal out of preparing your mind, which takes at least a day of sessions. Don’t ask me how we prepared. I can’t remember! Anyway, I thought the whole fire walking bit was cheesy, but now I get to brag about it, which I never have until now, because it never came up in any conversation. No one asked: “Walk on any hot coals, lately?” Of course, I probably look like an idiot for doing it and a bigger idiot for admitting it. Actually, it wasn’t that big of a deal. (I’ll let my fellow attendee comment about her own experience, if she wishes.)
Once again the great bluebird of WordPress kismet has landed on this humble blog. Another long distance dedication has been made.
I don’t think you’re an idiot for walking on hot coals or even bragging about it. I’m impressed. Especially since you somehow avoided the third degree burns. You got mad skillz.
My seminars use radiation as a metaphor for the hopelessness of life. Attendees are invited to put their minds over anti-matter and irradiate themselves. When their minds are properly prepared the experience is said to be uplifting. Participates literally glow after the experience.
“Walk on any hot coals lately?” would make an awesome t-shirt. We could put a pic of Tony Robbins on the back.
Tony Robbins is a freak of nature and scares me. Have you seen that guy’s hands??? I think he’s had hand surgery and that explains the disproportionate number of female devotees.
He suffers from Positivity Dysfunction.