Today was a “big” day – the shortest day of the year. Or to be more exact, the one with the least amount of daylight. Because I spend so much time outside, it always feels like the start of the new year, the real change instead of the calendar change. Out running in the Arizona sunshine, I could feel the gears shifting. From here, the days get longer and the next thing you know, the first flower appears.
But before today vanishes into memory, think about it. The world is turning and seasons are changing without our help. Without us actually having to make any of it happen. In spite of not achieving that award, or completing that errand, or catching that flight connection, or cooking the perfect holiday dinner, the world thankfully keeps on spinning. It doesn’t all ride on our shoulders. We can unclench that death grip on our notions of how life is supposed to be and enjoy the ride more.
Not that you should give up trying to climb Mt. Everest or achieve world peace, of course. A life spent avoiding even the hint of challenge isn’t worth living. But you can hold your idea of the route lightly and be open to unexpected forks off the trail. Who knows? You may find a more scenic route up Everest or scale an entirely different summit that’s even better but regardless, you’ll get where you need to go.
So relax and savor the ride with those extra minutes of sunshine!
