Andre : “What does it do to us, Wally, living in an environment where something as massive as the seasons or winter or cold, don’t in any way effect us? I mean, were animals after all. I mean… what does that mean? I think that means that instead of living under the sun and the moon and the sky and the stars, we’re living in a fantasy world of our own making. “

Wally : “Yeah, but I mean, I would never give up my electric blanket, Andre. I mean, because New York is cold in the winter. I mean, our apartment is cold! It’s a difficult environment. I mean, our life is tough enough as it is. I’m not looking for ways to get rid of a few things that provide relief and comfort. I mean, on the contrary, I’m looking for more comfort because the world is very abrasive. I mean, I’m trying to protect myself because, really, there’s these abrasive beatings to be avoided everywhere you look!”

Andre : “But, Wally, don’t you see that comfort can be dangerous? I mean, you like to be comfortable and I like to be comfortable too, but comfort can lull you into a dangerous tranquility.

I wouldn’t put on an electric blanket for any reason. First, I’d be worried if I get electrocuted. No, I don’t trust technology. But I mean, the main thing, Wally, is that I think that kind of comfort just separates you from reality in a very direct way.”

Andre & Wally in the movie: My Dinner With Andre

It might start with the electric blanket. Or, maybe it’s some electric socks. Whatever convenience it is, it separates us just a little bit from the reality. Soon, we’re attached to the convenience and not dealing with that actually exists.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/splityarn/3024035292/

I’ve found that even making little changes can be hard at first. After conscious effort, though, it all gets easier. I started with driving a different way to work. Not too much risk there. However, that brought me out of my morning reverie and just a little bit more into the moment. Next, I changed what I might have for lunch. Soon, I found that I was a little more awake and aware, and also looking forward to change and growth. This works a lot better for me than hanging out in comfort, and has ended up helping me feel much more comfortable than I ever was with the imaginary comforts.

How about you? Where have you found yourself giving in for comfort? What little changes have you made to help bring your awareness back?