There are so many helpful thoughts here. I try live more in the present with a sense of gratitude. I think I struggle entering midlife without accomplishing the goals I'd set myself, the comparison trap catches me out and im still trying on role/careers. At times I feel so rich but there are habits that keep me in that space
Thank you so much, Jen! I can definitely relate to the experience of staring down a long list of unaccomplished goals and to the uncertainty that comes with a changing career path! As I was mulling over similar issues this morning, I remembered (for the millionth time - I never stop needing reminding) that I can love the journey. I can choose to celebrate and enjoy the baby steps I’m taking today (and the pauses between them), whether or not I actually reach the exact destinations/goals I’m working toward. For me, there’s a lot of spaciousness and abundance in that remembering.
I've always - but especially lately - been looking to the natural world to reassure me that abundant generosity exists even at the most unlikely of times. Where I live, there has been overly-abundant rain and flooding and wildfire smoke this summer. Nonetheless, mid-summer flowers, in a glory of diverse colors, shapes and sizes are popping up everywhere. And they're every bit as exquisite against a backdrop of smoky haze or brooding rain clouds as a clear azure sky. Maybe even more so.
On the other hand, your piece has reminded me that there is also an abundance available of what I don't want. Like an abundance of fear-based political rhetoric and anxiety-provoking news 24x7. The good news, which you and Lynne Twist have helped me to remember, is that I get to choose what sort of abundance I avail myself (and my lizard) of.
Thanks for sharing your mid-summer flowers! I've thought a lot lately (and your comment models this) about the abundance that's opened up by being able to read other people's words, thereby stepping beyond your own walls and absorbing a fresh perspective (or whiff of wildflowers).
There are so many helpful thoughts here. I try live more in the present with a sense of gratitude. I think I struggle entering midlife without accomplishing the goals I'd set myself, the comparison trap catches me out and im still trying on role/careers. At times I feel so rich but there are habits that keep me in that space
Thank you so much, Jen! I can definitely relate to the experience of staring down a long list of unaccomplished goals and to the uncertainty that comes with a changing career path! As I was mulling over similar issues this morning, I remembered (for the millionth time - I never stop needing reminding) that I can love the journey. I can choose to celebrate and enjoy the baby steps I’m taking today (and the pauses between them), whether or not I actually reach the exact destinations/goals I’m working toward. For me, there’s a lot of spaciousness and abundance in that remembering.
I've always - but especially lately - been looking to the natural world to reassure me that abundant generosity exists even at the most unlikely of times. Where I live, there has been overly-abundant rain and flooding and wildfire smoke this summer. Nonetheless, mid-summer flowers, in a glory of diverse colors, shapes and sizes are popping up everywhere. And they're every bit as exquisite against a backdrop of smoky haze or brooding rain clouds as a clear azure sky. Maybe even more so.
On the other hand, your piece has reminded me that there is also an abundance available of what I don't want. Like an abundance of fear-based political rhetoric and anxiety-provoking news 24x7. The good news, which you and Lynne Twist have helped me to remember, is that I get to choose what sort of abundance I avail myself (and my lizard) of.
I'm excited to read your novel!
Thanks for sharing your mid-summer flowers! I've thought a lot lately (and your comment models this) about the abundance that's opened up by being able to read other people's words, thereby stepping beyond your own walls and absorbing a fresh perspective (or whiff of wildflowers).
One of my favorite lyrics: “our love is all of god’s money” - from Wilco
Ooooh I'm going to go listen to the full song now!