ping pong in my brain

I've started to think that the ability to play ping pong with ideas in one's head is actually pretty important. What I mean is, being able to internally produce a point-counterpoint. It requires flexibility. It requires being able to think of a perspective other than your initial reaction or inclination. It might take a little longer but it would seem to be a better way of producing ideas.

Typically, when a situation hits us, we have an initial response: I don't like that person. I want to see that movie. I want an iced coffee.

These seem to come naturally. Maybe they're the serve...now for the return. Maybe I'm reading that person incorrectly. Movies are expensive. I don't have any money.

The game is on...

But their behavior is truly offensive. I haven't seen a preview that appealing in months. An iced coffee would really help me to feel less tired today.

Maybe their bad behavior isn't typical. Do I have time to go see a movie? Is a big, sugary iced coffee a nutritious way to start my day?

Every volley needs an end. You have to make a decision. You have to settle on an opinion or an action. But maybe, if you arrive there after a good game of ping pong, you might be able to better appreciate the winning shot.