Forget the past: doing a new thing

Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness… ~ Isaiah 43:18-19

Recently, I wrote about unpacking #allthefeels. And I still have a more to unpack. I think, in a way, it’s been about…[read more]

The simple things

[Image credit: Rawich]

Sometimes I think cats really know how to live life.  They sleep the majority of the days away, most are satisfied with one variety of dry, crunchy food; one of my cats drools his appreciation when his chin is scratched.  Another of mine enjoys a few laps of cold milk in the mornings.  Oh, to find delight in the simple things.  Sprawled out, belly up in the sunshine.  Security in sameness.  Dining only when hungry; never having to worry about what you wear or how you look.  Bird-watching is live entertainment.  I’d shy away from the hygiene and bathroom business, however.  But otherwise, what a life!  And then there are the wee ones who share their furry four-legged friends’ affinity for a natural curiosity; delight in a fresh snow fall or polka dots.  I believe that recognizing the simple pleasures in our own lives will help keep us young at heart and lead to a greater tolerance for the unavoidable hard knocks.

What is your favorite simple thing?

Taking a leap of faith

[Image credit: tungphoto]

Last week a couple new opportunities came knocking.  On a Facebook post, I compared it to standing on the edge of a high dive, torn between fear of failure and hope for a big splash of success.  Some friends urged me to jump; others raised the question: if not now, when?  I look at successful writers, the ones who have their name in print with multiple publications under their belts.  And I want that (even just a little taste, thank you).  But it doesn’t come without risk (and sacrifice) — without taking that leap of faith away from the security of solid ground.  When I was a child, I climbed to the top of the highest diving board at the public pool, my peers lined up behind me in single file.  As I stood at the precipice and stared at the water below, my courage faltered and I turned around, pushing my way down to safety.  I did it again until the third time, I finally leapt (okay, more like stepped out and fell).  The shimmering surface stung as it slapped my skin, but I was no longer afraid.  Most of those who succeed in life jumped at one time too, working hard to keep their heads above water.  In case there’s any question, I did answer the door.

When opportunity knocks, do you dive right in or take your time to shore up the courage first?