I recently spent a month at a monastery in central Florida. The weather and surroundings were absolutely perfect; I enjoyed the chilly mornings and soft northern-like summer evenings. Between my volunteer chores I had time for reflection as I strolled over gently rolling, lush, spring-green lawns, leading down to a dusty blue lake and as I sat in the sun or shade, depending on the time of day and the weather. While I was daydreaming one afternoon in a lovely little garden under a huge, old oak tree, a particular thought came to me and has kept me company ever since.
I believe that thoughts which survive a return to the “real” world are worth sharing. I think this one is particularly special because it connects me to others in a more compassionate way. I didn’t visit the monastery to find compassion or to figure anything out, or even to relax or renew, it was just something I had wanted to do for years. (Wishful thinking at work!) I had no expectations, which was all part of the adventure – go, without knowing or expecting, and see what unfolds. Follow your interests and see what happens. This is one of the thoughts that unfolded for me . . .
“Everyone is trying.”
Each of us in our own haphazard and sometimes confusing way is trying to be better personally or at something, or to work something out, or to make something better for someone else. We don’t always succeed, but for the most part everyone is trying.
On a good day, this thought is exciting and exhilarating – everyone is trying! It peaks my curiosity and expands my empathy. On a not-so-good day, it softens the edges of humanity and brings clarity or at least a bit of understanding or acceptance to the actions of others. Everyone is trying.
While my new-found realization might not seem particularly profound or dramatic, it delights me, and I’ve decided to keep it, to take it wherever I go, and to see what unfolds. I’m trusting that you will give me the benefit of any doubts you may have about its value, because, after all, I’m trying.
Enjoy your weekend, I hope you have a moment or two to let go, and see what unfolds.
Other Wishful Thinking Works posts you might enjoy . . .
The Art of Unfolding
What I learned from trees
Stories and Strengths
Words to Live By
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