Did you ever do something that you thought no one would understand…in fact…you felt like everyone would think you were crazy…and that you had done the exact opposite of what you should have done?
Well…I have…and no…I’m not gonna tell you what it was…you didn’t tell me…and yes…there have been many things…but this is about one in particular…geez…you interrupt more than Bertha…
Any way…it was one of those things that I just kept to myself…because I honestly didn’t think anyone would understand…I even thought they might be disappointed in me…or think me foolish…
So…it was with caution that I shared my action with a close friend…(yes…you…there in Mexico…drinking coffee)…and instead of being critical…even that criticism that we thinly disguise as concern…she said the most amazing thing…Jane…I trust your heart…I trust that you know what’s best for you…
You could have knocked me over with a flamingo feather…no one had ever told me that they trusted me to know what was best for me…well…Bertha says she’s been trying to tell me that for years…I was just too busy listening to other people to hear her…hmmm…
The few other people I told…were much more clipped in their responses…they did refrain from eye rolling and tongue wagging…at least in my presence…but I knew they were thinking…she made a mistake…I don’t know why she did that…I would never have done that…
And they probably wouldn’t have…but they weren’t me…and they didn’t have all my thoughts and feelings…hopes and dreams…and previous life experiences…that all played into my decision…
My friend’s response gave me much to think about…first…she was right…I had made the right decision…I did know what was best for me…I’m glad that I took the action…no regrets…
But it also reminded me of the times that I too have used my own narrow lens when viewing another’s actions/decisions…that I have thought…I would never have done that…instead of saying…Friend…I trust your heart…you know what’s best for you…and I am remorseful for that…
So in conclusion…I’d like to say…whatever you are dealing with…whatever timid actions you are taking…not knowing if you’ll have the support of your loved ones…listen carefully to your heart…and follow it…I trust your heart to know what’s best for you…and so should you…
Jane
Such a very important lesson Jane! You are so wise!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Edie. I suppose I have wise friends...and I'm learning to listen to them. Thanks for being one of my wise ones!
ReplyDeleteOnce again Jane, you are singing my tune. I was just thinking about this EXACT thing on my morning meditation/walk... Ahhhh the validation. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE and adore what your friend said - that is priceless.
Once again you touched my heart. I love you always and thanks for the gentle reminders that make my day a little happier.
ReplyDeleteSeeing the wonderful choices you make for your own life gives those of us who love you the courage to step out of the boxes we have crammed ourselves into and take a chance as well. Thank you for the inspiration.
ReplyDeleteJenn...I love serendipity...and yes...a priceless statement by a priceless friend!
ReplyDeleteCheri...thank you for trusting me for me...you encourage and inspire me, just thinking of you!
Betty...thank you so much for your comment...sometimes it doesn't feel so wise in the thick of things...always glad to get the perspective of time...love who you are and how you are taking care of yourself...
Jane , it is so amazing how many times you have encouraged me with just the right words , a hug or a warm squeeze of the hand. I love you chickadee ;)
ReplyDeleteBack at you Cheri...back at you!
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