Last weekend I took a road trip with some friends of mine to
Nashville, TN. I had been looking forward to this trip for a very long time. While
I have known these ladies for quite a while, this would be my first such
adventure with them, and I was excited for the new experience. I was not
disappointed. Let me also add that each of these ladies has their own unique
story, background and bring something rare and precious to the table. Suffice
it to say this was not a cookie cutter convention, and yet there was mutual
respect and admiration for all. I felt accepted, safe and appreciated; which is
really all anyone can hope for within their circle of friends. We had a great time,
and this blog post is dedicated to just one small blip from that trip that made
a big impact on my heart.
On Friday night we went to see The Grand Ole Opry at the
Ryman Auditorium. It was so much fun to be there live and hear all the great
music. My favorite was a bluegrass group; Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, who
performed one of their songs; “Life To My Days”. Here is a small excerpt….
I wish we
all could live at least until we're 90
Without any aches, or pains, or a cloudy mind
I wish everyone could taste the kind of love they dream of finding
And get to see their ship come sailin' in at least one time
I've been here long enough to know
That ain't the way it always goes
So if I'm one of those travelers whose journey gets cut short
And leave the ones I leave behind wishin' I had more time
All I can say is I can't add more days to my life
So I'll add more life to my days
Without any aches, or pains, or a cloudy mind
I wish everyone could taste the kind of love they dream of finding
And get to see their ship come sailin' in at least one time
I've been here long enough to know
That ain't the way it always goes
So if I'm one of those travelers whose journey gets cut short
And leave the ones I leave behind wishin' I had more time
All I can say is I can't add more days to my life
So I'll add more life to my days
Something about that song just stuck with me. The honesty of
it. The reality mixed with hope. It strikes a balance between knowing there are
certain hardships we encounter and things in life we may desire and strive for,
but maybe not quite see fulfilled. It also offers the listener the opportunity to
take back a little control over their happiness and impact in their world. We
all have the chance, and yes, even the responsibility to add more LIFE to our
DAYS! How do we accomplish that?
Let Go Of The Past…
There are people and circumstances in your rear-view mirror that hurt you.
Leave them there. The only real purpose of that mirror is to quickly glance to
see how far you’ve come. If your focus is looking back, you will never appreciate
the view in front of you. Don’t hold a grudge or wait for an apology that may
never come. Learn from your mistakes, accept the mistakes of others and move
beyond the pain. The road ahead is open and waiting for you; make the most of
each new adventure with a clear and open heart.
Pursue Yourself… One
of my favorite expressions is “Pursue Yourself; Relentlessly”. Now I understand
the concept can be taken too far and one can become overly self-absorbed and a
royal pain to be around. I’m not talking narcissistic behavior or becoming
insensitive to the needs of others. To me, this simply implies being in touch
with what drives you, inspires you and encourages you. There is another quote
that says: “You can’t serve from an empty vessel.” We all need to find the time
to pursue the activities and habits that fill our love and energy tank. These activities
will be as varied and diverse as the individuals reading this post, so do not
look to copy another’s game plan. Create our own! If this is a new concept for
you, it may take some trial and error, but I promise it will be worth it. Learn
to love yourself and each day will be an adventure.
Love Unconditionally…
There are people in your world that need your love and acceptance. Freely
give that to them. Openly and often express your love and appreciate for the ones
who make your world a better place. Never underestimate the power of “I Love
You”. Those three words never get old. As emotional beings, we crave that affirmation
daily. Tell your partner, your children, your parents. Call someone who may not
have heard from you in a while and catch up. Find an outreach to devote time
and even resources into. We are approaching the time of year where those in
need will come across your path. Be wise, but also be willing to help, donate
or just BE there for someone. Love is the one commodity that is never depleted
when given. The more love you pour out, the more that wells up within you. Make
it a point to give some away every day.
My Hopefuls, my goal for you today is to understand the
precious fleeting days of our lives. Time passes without consideration and no
one is promised tomorrow. The songwriter is so very true in his sentiment. When
all is said and done, there is very little we can do to add days to our lives.
Of course, healthy living and taking care of ourselves will certainly help, but
our days are numbered, and we are not given that information when we are born. Make
each one count. Do your best to leave a positive impact. Love. Respect. Pursue.
Be the kind of person who can truly say…
So I'll
add more life to my days
Hope With Abandon
Hope Out