Some people are experts at letting life happen to them. You know the kind: the ones who always seem to be the victim; the ones for whom nothing seems to go right (when you know they've done nothing to help themselves.) I'm not one of them. Usually, I know when to push the accelerator and when to let up on the gas. I don't give up, and I don't like to give in. Others are experts at allowing Life to happen, not TO them, but AROUND them. They absorb and enjoy the smells, sights, and sounds of events.
A few weeks ago, I decided to play the leaf to Life's riverflow. I cast myself into the current and allowed Life to happen around me. I wanted to see what would happen when I allowed things just to unfold.
Here are some of events that were presented to or around me:
- My son broke his arm at martial arts training;
- I was a chaperon at the eighth grade field trip to see the replica of the Vietnam War Memorial Wall;
- A neighbor mysteriously disappeared and was found several days later in a neighboring county...with a bullet in his head;
- A person near and dear to my heart married the love of his life, and now his lady love is special to me for the love she shares with my friend. Sadly, I couldn't be there for the celebration, but I was most definitely there in my heart;
- I enjoyed many, many lunches with my friend, Laura;
- My daughter revealed to me (and others around her) that I am a trusted adult in her life, someone in whom she can confide and trust. She can be herself with me;
- We bought a new piece of furniture because we decided we are WORTH IT;
- I shared many humorous, enlightening, and revealing conversations with friends, newly made and long-time ones;
- I discovered a new, locally owned Greek restaurant that has baklava I crave and freshly-made pita that "tastes like buttah;" and
- I shared lots and lots of laughter, hugs, and kisses with my incredible son and amazing daughter.
I learned that I need to play the leaf a bit more often. It's not always necessary to drive the fastest race; sometimes a trip in the slow lane is just what is desired. And needed.
Peace, joy, and later daze....
