Moving On

And on we shall go!

I was at a public entertainment venue the other evening. A dear family member treated us to dinner and live music at Villaggio’s in Roselle. The evening began with our favorite arias from several Italian operas. A diva sang soprano, and the master of ceremonies sang a beautiful tenor. Both were trained in opera and were very good. Together they made an enchanting pair.

Coupled with an appreciative audience, attentive wait staff and good food, the evening was a rousing success. Table talk was subdued by both the music and the abundant food. But we did catch up on family and friends we hold in common.

Of course stories abound and many of them filled with drama. What family doesn’t have these intense moments of theater? But something said struck me with happy force. And this is it:

“I’ve moved on. I love them and care for them, but they have to find their own

 way in life. They will make mistakes and hurt one another, but in the end, it will

 be OK and we will all be the better for it. Meanwhile, I can’t control it or own it;

 best to move on and focus on my own life to live.”

That resonates with me. It is strong enough to apply to much more of life as well. Career, colleagues, neighbors, politics, and so much more. Our lives are filled with many things, all important. We cannot possibly control or manage all of it. Nor should we feel required to do so. Let it go. Tend to my own garden and see it grow. Share that abundance with others, and continue on my path. Not selfishly but determined to make a difference in the lives of others through sharing my abundance.

That abundance is not always advice, money or gifts. Abundance is measured in smiles, too, and attitudes, encouragement and comfort.

These lessons come slowly throughout much of life’s journey. When realized we pause in stunned silence – ‘that’s what that means!’  How many aha moments like this have you experienced? Do you even admit having them? Or maybe someone pointed out one to you sometime?

Aha moments are precious. They mean we are sensitive enough at times to actually understand what is happening and what it means in the larger picture of life. Modern life is complicated and often chaotic. Aha moments are mostly hidden and obscured. When they happen they are very special. The lesson dawns and is kept close in memory and heart.

Moving on with one’s life is one result of capturing an important lesson. Often we don’t move on but rather dwell on the negative and the suggested slights and insults made by others. Of course they are not all meant as slights; some are just misspoken words fueled by a moment of frustration and disappointment. It is easy to take offense. It is more difficult to slough it off and forget it. But we must.

That is our growth and strength of character. To live more in the moment and move on with all that life has to offer.

Not a bad lesson to think about from time to time. I’m glad I encountered it and it made an impression. So I share this aha moment with you.

Take it, use it, grow with it.

Peace!

March 14, 2017