Expect the unexpected--words to live by, in a way. Only when we're in a state of readiness, when we're able to be flexible with our lives and reactions, can we really handle the curves well. No matter how many tantrums we might throw, or how much pouting we do, things will not be as we want them to be just because we want them to be. Acceptance and agility are among the most practical virtues we can acquire.
Slowing down helps. When we slow down, we're able to have more of our attention, our mental and physical energy, available in the moment, with what's happening right now, or about to. And the wonderful byproduct of slowing down is an increased awareness of the quality of life around us. Details, small beauties, messages that could be missed or opportunities lost. Or just a nice photograph, upon noticing the way a group of grasses blends a variety of shapes and textures and shades of gold.
To live in our heads, ahead of ourselves and behind ourselves, is to divorce ourselves from our senses, from being able to experience what's really happening in the moment. I know, because I am an expert at this, and have missed out on too much of my life as a result.
But I took this picture, which I like. So I must be doing something right.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
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