Years ago, I found myself captivated by James Clavell’s epic novel, Shogun. The character that left the deepest impression on me was Lord Toranaga. He embodied qualities I greatly admire: strategic thinking, bravery, astuteness, adaptability, and patience.

There’s one scene early in the book that stands out as my favorite. In this scene, Toranaga is held as a “guest” in his rival Ishido’s Osaka Castle, a situation fraught with danger and betrayal. Trapped in what seems like an impossible predicament, his loyal retainer Hiro-Matsu paints a grim picture:

“If you stay or leave now, it’s the same – disaster, because now you’ve been betrayed and you are isolated, Sire… and you’ll never escape.”

Hiro-Matsu then poses the crucial question: “What are you going to do?”

With remarkable composure, Toranaga replies, “First, I’m going to have my swim.”

This response, seemingly mundane and nonchalant, is packed with profound significance. It reflects his refusal to succumb to pressure or make hasty decisions. By choosing to swim, Toranaga asserts his autonomy and control over the situation, however limited his options might be.

We all encounter moments in life where circumstances feel overwhelmingly out of our control. It’s in these challenging times that finding small ways to assert control can be empowering.

I speak from experience having tried this approach successfully over the years in dealing with my terminal cancer diagnosis.

By taking deliberate actions being in control, however minor, we can regain our composure and prepare to face the larger challenges ahead.