I have always had the belief and mantra that life is short; do and enjoy all that you want NOW; you don’t know what’s around the corner. When I was in my twenties, I worked with the elderly. (Home Health Physical Therapy). I love “old” people! They have lived and experienced so much; I was fascinated with their lives and wisdom and really thought I could learn from their experiences. So I asked them, “what one piece of advice would you give someone like myself?”, (a twenty- something year old). Without fail, they all said if you want to do something in your life, do it now, don’t wait! Like, traveling, seeing and experiencing the world. Most of them said they had wanted to “travel” but were waiting until “retirement” to do that. and they pointedly said, “look at us now!”
Actually living one day at a time is easier said than done…… To enjoy life in the “present” takes some practice and discipline. For some, dwelling in the past defines them and is “comfortable and safe”. Here’s a great quote:
“Everything will change when your desire to move on exceeds your desire to hold on” – Alan H. Cohen
That’s not really me. I don’t dwell or “cry over spilled milk”, (for very long); I move on. Remember, I like to fix things; plan ahead; control the outcome…etc. I’m sure some reflection and thought on the past is useful, and I work on it everyday, (a little).
I do believe we need to “plan” to a certain degree; Parties, College, Career, Retirement etc.
“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail” – Benjamin Franklin
My lesson was learning that I was NOT the director and I couldn’t make everyone “play” their part to complete my vision! “If only they would do this, then …. (fill in the blank).
My lesson and task is to enjoy today! All we have is today; tomorrow is not promised. I am learning (ongoing) to Accept and Trust that whatever comes down the pike, I will be able to handle. That’s not to say that I will like everything that happens, or that it might not be painful or sad, or that it will be according to plan; but with the strength and guidance I ask for from “my God” everyday, (sometimes every 10 minutes!), I know I can make it. If I can free myself from worry about the future I can “enjoy” and learn from today.
Wizard of Alz blog 