IF by Rudyard Kipling  |
This poem was shared by my friend, Carlene, who is going through some rough stuff right now. She’s actually a great human example of this poem, having done some fantastic things with her life while still remaining “Carlene”. She is one of a kind, living her best life in her mid-80’s. If you’re reading, Carlene, don’t let the turkeys get you down.
Treating triumph and disaster the same important in life. In reality, the highest highs and the lowest lows have a lot in common. We all need to hold on holding on long after there is nothing left in us. And we need to remember sage wisdom from another poet, “Somedays we’re the windshield, and some days we’re the bug.” Hmmmm. Describes “cancer” and “widowhood” for me.
I’m sure this poem isn’t “WOKE” enough for the youngers of the day. Perhaps, for them, it’s time for them to quiet the noise in their brains a little bit. Learn to “Suck it up, Buttercups”, and be quiet for a time Perhaps if they did, they could listen to wisdom from their elders. I wish more people were courageous enough to embody this poem. Our world needs Bold Greatness right now.
Turning the noise off at Winterpast is something from which I find inner peace. Just hitting the off button on the television, or telling “Alexa” to go visit friends in England, (or wherever the heck she’s from), lets the real sounds of nature come through. Birds. Wind. The howl of a coyote. The nay of a mustang. The sound of a distant train whistle.
There is so much noise in the world today, it’s hard to catch our breath and just “Be” for a bit. Commune with your soul while being your own best friend. Now, that’s a game-changer.
Whatever you do today, try silence for 15 minutes. This includes silencing the clickity-clack of the computer keyboard. Just 15 minutes of nothing. Try sitting outside while you try this. Listen to “nothing” and see what you can hear. You might be surprised how loud “silence” can be. While you’re at it, listen to your heart. It has plenty to say.
More tomorrow.