Embrace the struggle: every good story contains conflict

 

We must let go of the life we have planned,
so as to accept the one that is waiting for us.
~ Joseph Campbell

Nearly 18 months ago, I embarked on a rite of passage: the admittance into “Club 50“—a new season I embraced with enthusiasm, positivity and sparkles. Oh, the places I’ll go, to coin a favorite Dr. Seuss book title. I began to plan this next half century, my hopes and dreams—my bucket list—with gusto and determination. Yet, here I am, a year and a half later, my bucket filled with these same goals, along with a few plot twists along the way: loss, disappointment, unrequited dreams. But, if we release our plans—or, at the very least, loosen the reins—perhaps, in turn, we invite opportunities to build character and deepen relationships through our struggles. In the process, we might even create space to dream a new dream. And to share that dream with others.

What plan(s) do you need to release?

Someday is Today

I talk about Someday. A lot. It’s the place I fantasize about, strive for, count on, pin my future hopes to and hang out in my imagination. One night my daughter texted me the above image with the words, “Saw this and thought of you.” Except for running a marathon Someday, everything else has been me at least once. Cue in the words of Dr. Seuss: “Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away!” He doesn’t say, Someday is your day. I may not be living the full reality of my dreams. Yet. But Today is the day to start making things happen. Because Today is the only thing I have to work with. And if I don’t put some sweat equity into it now, when Someday arrives, I may be left behind. Wait, I never … Do you want to plan for retirement? Change your career? Return to school? Fill in the blank? Today is your day.

What are you waiting for?

Your mountain is waiting

You’re off to Great Places! … Your mountain is waiting,
So … get on your way!
~ Dr. Seuss

I love Dr. Seuss and the simple way he approaches life and its challenges.  There’s a mountain, go climb it.  But then there are the planners, like me, who need to put together the gear necessary to make the hike.  Calculate the time it’ll take to get there and wonder if it’s simply safer to stay where I’m at.  What if I’m afraid of heights?  What if the view from the top isn’t worth the effort involved to get there?  What if it isn’t so great after all?  And what if you prefer the ocean?  Of course, there are no guarantees, but even if we stumble on the way, at least we’re moving forward.  Up and over.  Because we don’t have to stay on the top if it wasn’t what we were hoping for.  There’s always the other side, and other mountains.

What is the mountain waiting for you?

Love the “one” you’re with

You know you are in love when you can’t fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams. ~ Dr. Seuss

It could be the big screen TV you purchased to view the Super Bowl game on a couple of weeks ago, that cuddly pup you brought home from the rescue shelter or your sassy new hairstyle.  Perhaps you’ve discovered a fondness for the flavor of loose-leaf brewed tea, you’re a new parent (or great auntie) who recently welcomed a tiny human into the world, or you’re fortunate enough to be sharing your life with the one who keeps you awake at night (snoring or otherwise).  Or maybe you’re in love with the idea of pinky promises coming true as you wait for Someday to unfurl its second chances and new life.  Whichever category you find yourself in, something — or someone (even if it’s purely you!) — is no doubt the recipient of your affection.  So no matter how you fill your day, I hope it brings a smile to your face.  And if it bridges the distance between your fantasies and your reality, then all the better.

Are you doing anything special today to celebrate your love?