A little girl saved my life today.On my morning walk, I was strolling around the neighborhoods near my home. I had my iPod nano's earbuds tucked tight into my earlobes and I was getting into my groove. My mind was jumping from new ideas on how to brand myself to prior conversations I had with my friends, and I was thinking of my future and all of a sudden I could feel my chest tighten.
How was I going to do all that I wanted and what if things didn't work out like I had always hoped they would? I began to ponder this thought a little bit too deeply and get myself "wrapped around the axle" as one of my friends likes to say to me. Luckily I was looking around and just happened to see the cutest little girl, probably around three to four years of age, with blond curls, sitting barefoot on her parents' front porch step, coloring joyfully. As I passed her on the sidewalk, she suddenly looked up from her artwork and smiled this big smile at me. So, I waved at her and she waved back and giggled.
And then, I giggled.
As quickly as the moment happened, she was gone. Scampering back into the house with her book, probably to show her mom her handiwork. But the moment didn't last as quickly for me. The image of this smiling, jubilent child stayed with me all day.
It was like she was telling me, "Have fun. Relax. Enjoy life." In some ways I felt like she was me at that age, full of enthusiasm and energy, not worrying about anything more than when daddy's coming home from work or where my favorite toy was.
I wanted to treasure that moment. That gift she gave me. If not for her, who knows where my mind would have taken me. And I'm grateful for having taken that walk and met this little angel. She will never know what she's done, but I will.
Remember, sometimes the people we smile at might need it more than we do. It's not so hard to do, right? I hope, no matter what your mindset is today, you will think back to days when you may have been more carefree and let those moments guide you to be a bit more relaxed and joyous in the present.
Shel, what a wonderful story...and so beautifully written! Thanks for sharing. I'm going to smile today. :)
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ReplyDeleteSo true... I often held this belief as my credo, always having been the eternal optimist.
ReplyDeleteI keep noticing how often my peers comment on the ailments of aging, quickly followed by my unchanged self-perception. See, despite the aches, pains and wrinkles, I believe I am equally capable now as ever.
The occasion to prove our worth arises quite infrequently after formal education and sport have subsided. In many of these instances, I've longed for the same determination I once had and accept that maybe the majority rules do apply.
Recently, however, I volunteered at a punt, pass and kick competition. Sadly, it hurt to throw a football and I quickly became aware that I may embarrass myself at some point.
Being surrounded by energetic youth that were determined to be the best, a spirit in me was awakened! Within a few hours, I threw a perfect pass further than ever. Thanks to the kids :)
Take risks, enjoy the ride and CARPE DIEM!
I'm so glad this post touched so many of you. The little girl really made my day and reminded me that life is not as complex and complicated as I sometimes envision it to be. It's nice to know I have friends who share in this vision.
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