Slow Down Already

In the 16 months since I walked away from my job, life has been interesting. I knew my pace would change, but what strikes me is how subtle the shift has been; how unexpected.

I thought my calendar would open up, but instead I see I'm addicted to a fast pace.

I anticipated more breathing room, but my space isn't filled in by fewer activities, just different activities.

I believed I wasn't in control of the clip of life, but now I see I have never been the victim of others' whims.

Nope. I can't blame.  I have to recognize I am an active participant in my life.

I schedule the trips. I say yes to the meetings, coffees, and the lunches. I accept the invitations and have a not-so-secret "Fear Of Missing Out"  habit.

Being my "own boss" (is there really such a thing?) removes my excuses and reminds me I have to decide if I am going to live my life as if my house were on fire, or with a reasonable sense of calm?

I love this short, brilliant poem by Billy Collins and yet again think, "Be the tortoise, not the hare."

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

My Hero

Just as the hare is zipping across the finish line, the tortoise has stopped once again by the roadside, this time to stick out his neck and nibble a bit of sweet grass, unlike the previous time when he was distracted by a bee humming in the heart of a wildflower.

Where do you need a change of pace this week? What do you need to stop doing?

Why won't you slow down already?