As one who lives in the north, the solstice is a time of reflection and resolution. Like Cooper, I enjoy burning things I would like to let go of, and the curling of the paper in the fire does make letting go of things easier. It is also the time I reflect on what I'd like to focus on.This year in my writers' group we announced goals to each other. Goals seem more humble and realistic than resolutions. And there is something about verbalizing to friends what we want to do that helps place us on the path to doing.
Last night we were invited to a couple's house for dinner. Their daughter wants to go to Kenya to study for a semester and the parents were worried about her safety. We went to reassure them that the school program the daughter was going on was safe and that she would have an incredible experience in Kenya.
On the way home our car was smashed into by a driver who had skidded on ice and lost control. The back window was blown out, the rear end crushed, and the front tire twisted. Fiona and I are okay. We have some sore muscles and keep seeing the accident when we close our eyes, but it could have been so much worse.
Fiona pointed out that we had gone to reassure them about safety and then been smashed into on our way home in Minneapolis. Such a reminder about how quickly things can change anyplace. And such a reminder about what I continue to need to be reminded of: the necessity of living each day fully and gratefully.
11 comments:
Blessings, John! But the reminder is to live fully every second of our lives.
wow John! I am so glad you and Fiona are okay. And too, the reflection of reassurance, when indeed we never know, do we?
I agree with you that living in the north during the solstice seems to welcome reflection on past, present and future. I had a writer's group for which we set "goals" or "vision" for the new year, never resolutions. It is a matter of compassionate living. My writer's group has dispersed to different parts of the country, but now we e-mail our goals and visions for the new year. It does help to have others around to listen.
Again, so glad you and Fiona are safe!
By the way-- what a lovely photo!
Thank you Lauren and Carmen.
I'm very glad to hear that you and Fiona are safe, John. Yes, a good reminder to enjoy every day (and also a good reminder to me to take it slow on those icy roads outside). May you return safely from all of your travels this year, both near and far.
Glad to hear you and Fiona are safe, John! What a beautiful photo of the solstice and timely reminder of lengthening days and living each one to the fullest.
May I add that I'm glad you and Fiona are okay too.
I'm reading Box Out right now and am so proud of my new basketball knowledge. I went to a game tonight and noticed the players wiping their hands on their shoes. I felt so smart for knowing that they do that.
Thank you all. I'm feeling better each day and Fiona's on the mend as well.
And Diane, I'm so pleased that you are on top of the hoop details at the games.
A poignant reminder of the fragility of life. So glad to hear you're okay, John.
How are you both doing now? Any injuries emerging? I suspect you both feel a bit jumpy in the car. Keep snug and safe! What a beautiful piece of writing. Life is ironic.
oh no! I'm so glad you're okay.
Post a Comment