Fortune Cookie Friday: I Have the Power
When I first read my latest fortune, I was not quite sure what it meant. I had to jump on my computer and google “Power Position.” I waited for my incredibly slow network connection to give me the answer, hoping it wasn’t something inappropriate.
It turns out that this is something I need to work on. The power position is a concept in Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese practice of studying one’s position within one’s surroundings. The Power Position, also called the “Dragon Seat,” is the physical position in the room for a business meeting, which typically has the most power.
Usually reserved for upper management, the person in this position can see all entrances to the room. They also sit against a wall or other structure, so that no activity occurs behind them. This makes them the focus of attention to all persons present. Think head of the table.
In most homes, the parent(s) is (are) at the head of the table. They hold the power position, because, traditionally, they are the hosts of the dinner. If there were a guest of honor, they would sit directly to their right. This “power position” allows parent to control what happens at mealtime.
If you are like me, a control freak, you will have a hard time giving up a power position. This does not just pertain to meals, but in many circumstances. As a parent, I have to let my children “take the wheel” occasionally so they can learn how to do things on their own. This could be preparing a meal, going out with friends, and soon, taking the actual steering wheel of the car, as they learn to drive. Trust me; I am not looking forward to that day.
If you were to ask my husband which of us was the head of the household, he would probably say I am. That does not give me the only power position in the family; we still share it, and I am content with that knowledge.
So how do I give up the power position? I need to let go of the urge to control every aspect of my life. Control is really just an illusion; no matter how hard you try, not everything will go your way. If you are like me, you need to sit back and let it go.
