November 13th 2026

Triggers

Triggers

If we have paid attention in life, we will know that when someone or something triggers us, the issue is ours.

A trigger is that reflexive reaction, similar to the inability-to-be-stopped reflex when a doctor hits your relaxed kneecap and your leg jerks.

The reflex to strike out, to defend, to justify, is the indicator.

I watch the triggered response of so many people to my article from two days ago about the distinction between anti-this and that and racism. It is quite stunning to observe. So much defensiveness. So much projection. So much hate.

The response speaks for itself.

It is a hard lesson for us all, myself included. To notice our triggers, and rather than be reflexive, to take a breath, pause, notice the emotions, and then ask questions about why this issue triggers such a visceral and reflexive response.

If there were no truth to be examined in the trigger, it would not be a trigger.

A trigger, by nature, needs the wound to be present. And wounds are there to be healed. Although many people prefer to keep their wounds open and cultivated, the subtext of the forever victim.

I have my own triggers, as do we all.

They are gifts for our development, if we are wise and brave enough to choose to examine them instead of striking out in response to being triggered.

When we do not, when we are reactive and responsive, it says more about our character and maturity.

Engaging with a triggered response with a triggered response is a big mistake. Nothing good comes from that.

I choose not to engage at all. Poking a wound is not helpful, even when done with good intentions.

Published November 13th 2026. Photo taken November 13th 2021