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. . . . . . there is no edge to openness

SHAKE UP

Sunday Feb. 28, 2016

 

I’m not wishing life-altering trauma on myself, or anyone, but realizing that when life-altering trauma happens to people – in my experience, so many people stay their path – like deer in the headlights, not knowing where to turn. Others tend to take the event as opportunity, and as authority, to chart a new course. To make a new life. To write the next chapter, not shackled by their last one …

 

Choice of directions available is unlimited – not limiting. Number of paths we can explore is limited only by our own fears, our own self-doubts.

 

Ask yourself – If I was tossed from this comfortable path today (career-path, job, marriage, bereaved, deported, lost in some desert …. you get the picture) what would I, what could I, peruse to make my life whole, more-whole, more worthwhile or worthy of my efforts?

 

Sorting out life at my age is difficult – perhaps because I didn’t have a mid-life crisis. Or, maybe I’ll have one soon. Mathematically, I’m well overdue. But I don’t’ think I’m ready yet.  I’m not worn out yet …

 

Not used up yet. Not recycled yet. Not made-over yet …

 

I’m working on that.

 

I expect a lot of people believe that once their life is well along a few decades that most things are set in stone. I would agree they are set, but more like they are set-in-Jello. I mean, shaken a bit, you’re still there. Maybe we should rock our own boat. Or at least eat enough Jello to get ourselves unstuck.

 

Rock that boat. You’re still there. 

 

Imagine now, upend expectations, capsize your boat.

 

Voila, new territory. 

 

New life.

 

 

Mark Kolke

written / published from Emerald Lake Lodge, Field, BC - another day/night of big views and beautiful food – and silence. Who knew a hot tub, fireplace and a sky could soothe all life’s ills.

morning walk:  -3/26F, clear, moonless sky studded with stars (not diminished by city lights) lit my way, first light gradually turning mountains into massive sepia drawings – wanting colour, wanting light …

Reader feedback:

FIRESIDE

There is nothing quite like a flame when the flames dance and put us in a trance while watching it. And that meal … to die for! I see you are definitely practicing mindfulness, being in the moment. Enjoy., CG, Cobourg, ON


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