It’s overcast as I sit down to share my thoughts this Sunday morning. I have just returned from a family reunion (my first) in Idaho, my birthplace. I knew very few of the relatives and those I did know I had lost touch with some 20+ years past. It was a grand time and yet the reunion was secondary. The main reason everyone came together was the celebration of the birth of Nora Gross, my aunt. One hundred years ago, on February 10, 1900, this wondrous lady was born. Imagine having a “Centenarian” in the family and one who loves to banter back and forth (she’s always winning the battle with me!) and doesn’t seem to stay home much. I only hope and pray that I am as active and alert and as well loved as she is at that age. Coming face to face with someone that has experienced our history for 100 yearsÉwow. What a life and what a treasure! I was indeed blessed in being able to share in the moment. Going to the reunion also gave me something else. The value of family and friends. So often, when on the “fast track” of life there doesn’t seem to be time enough to come togetherÉeven when in the same state. I can’t remember the number of times when I have heard someone say that they haven’t seen so and so in ages — and the amazing part of this is that they live but a few blocks away. Do you remember the times when you would get together with friends or family and just have a gathering. A period where you laughed, played, had midnight conversations or just hung outÉyou know, a good time. When was the last time that you really let go and had fun? For some, I know that fun is a daily requirement; however, for many, we have become so “busy” that we have little time for family or friends — or the fun things in life. Of course this is only my opinion — but maybe it’s time to stop and re-evaluate our lives. I remember being asked, “what are your hobbies,” É do you know, I couldn’t think of any. I can say this, it most certainly made me stop and think how I have let my busy lifestyle weave a web of restriction in how I live. Many of us can always come up with or justify why we haven’t called our best friend in weeks or why we haven’t gotten togetherÉbut where does that justification get us? Overworked, tired, isolated and stressed to the max. I don’t know of very many who haven’t been there and the world reflects this same energy. In fact, it comes back on usÉif we want to see a different world we must see a different person called the “self”. A person who is willing to make the commitment to creating balance in their lives — taking time to play, to work and to reflect on their true inner nature of being. What changes are you willing to make in order to accomplish your balance, your new world? Aldous Huxley created “The Brave New World” a perfect utopia — are you brave enough to step forward into your world of balance? Play, find a hobby, laugh, see the beauty surrounding you, look in the mirror and see the radiance of your being, love yourself enough to say “no” to a world of chaos and business and too, love yourself enough to say “yes” to all areas of life. Take Care. Michelene |
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