Time to change…
Yesterday I was reminded of the fragility of life on two occasions. Tomorrow is not a given so why are we not making the most of each day? Instead we are- I am – in in such a hurry we potentially miss what’s important.
I know I need to rest and restore some sanity in my life. After a 49 hour work week, I am tired in every area of my life – physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. This is not how it’s supposed to be! I need some perspective – I need connection, and fun, and walks on the beach, cups of tea with a dear friend – I need more than work.
The first event was seeing a motorcyclist lying in the middle of the road, his bike many meters away. He had hit an animal at speed and crashed. His riding companion was clearly shaken and distraught. He was not moving and I do not know if he survived. It was a grim scene. Emergency personnel had not yet arrived.
20 minutes later I came across the second incident – also unattended yet by emergency services. It appears a caravan jack knifed and rolled. There was debris everywhere. Also unclear how many were hurt or if anyone died. The crash scene was harrowing. In the blink of an eye, the lives are 2 families were irreversibly changed. The roads were busy and I imagine it could have been a lot worse.
One thing struck me, was the impatience of many drivers on t he road, even after witnessing these 2 accidents. Sitting on your tail at high speed, even in the rain. It is mind-blowing. My mind kept replaying the crash scenes so I prayed for the casualties and their families. It also made slow down and be more aware of the road I was on.
It seems ironic that I am reading a book about eliminating hurry and I come across two such vivid reminders to slow down and be mindful of what’s around me. It’s all about the journey , not the destination. Try to enjoy the journey. I have 5 days before I need to head back so I intend to make the most of the time as who knows what is around the corner for me or you.
I am fast approaching retirement and don’t want the lack of work to equal a lack of meaning in my life. The time to do things differently is now.