By definition, all ruts hold us back in some way. Yet, in looking at the ruts of my life, I found myself making a nearly innumerable list. Why then, knowing these ruts keep me from living life in the way I have imagined, do I continue to pursue them, even add to them? The answer, I suppose, is that I fall into the grooves that are easiest, most readily available. Nothing is easier than falling into my enveloping leather sofa, flipping on the television, and watching hours of my life disappear to meaningless mind-numbing faux reality.

My rut is television.

For one week I will give up this rut and see what happens. I am excited by this difference, this chance to get off the “dusty highway” of my normal day and live differently (Emerson). By no means will this week be a breeze; so much of my post-work routine is dominated by cable programming. This will mean I take a significant departure from what is habit and find some new way to spend my time. I could grade, or exercise, or read, or spend time talking to my friends who live far away. Compounding the difficulty I anticipate having is the fact that I do not live on an island all-alone with only what pleased me to concern myself. I live with my husband, and it is playoff season for Fantasy Football. In the Dietz household this means our televisions are blaring ESPN of the NFL Network constantly. I will either have to convince my husband to see the benefits of a week inspired by Transcendentalist ideals, or find somewhere to hide out while he parks it in from of the television (the former is the more likely of the two seeing as if my husband had to choose between me or Fantasy Football, it would be a tough call). 🙂

I will report back in two days on the status of my attempt to rid myself from the habits of daily life. Wish me luck!