(Note: For this post to make any sense, you’ll first need to read my last one.)
I’m here, I’m here, I’m here, I’m HERE, I’M HERE.
But but but but but . . .
You didn’t get it. I wasn’t clear. It’s not just home I’m talking about; it’s an awareness: I’m HERE.
“Here not only in location, but in body, mind, and spirit. Here in loyalty. Here in love.” Here is also a presence of mind, a recognition of where we stand and what we stand for and what we (really) want and what has made us who we are.
In the ever-increasing madness of today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and forget to consider these questions. But these queries are important because answering them (or not) is what shapes the course of our lives… Because the other side of the coin is that we really do change. How we change and what we accomplish is up to us and requires self-awareness and honesty with ourselves.
While I was home in California in July, I skimmed through a journal I wrote in Italy half my lifetime ago. I was shocked to see some of the things I’d written. Who IS this person?! I marveled. The fanciful view I had of the world at 17 does not match the world I’ve experienced as an adult. And yet going back in time helped me better understand the decisions I made at 17 (or 25, or 33) that have shaped the person I’ve become. It helped me be kinder to my younger and older self.
How do I mean? Living in Asia gave me a greater cultural perspective of the world. Talking to people has given me greater empathy. Holding various jobs has given me greater insight into others’ lives. Going back to school has made me realize just how quickly time goes . . .
Not all people are as reflective as I am. And that’s okay. You do your weird and I’ll do mine. But as for me, I want my years on this planet to MEAN something. And not just for me.
shift 
So you must decide WHAT you want it to mean, and who for, and that’s your goal! :)
Precisely, Fraggle. :)
There are moments in life that set you on a new, special, path and it sounds like is where you on right now. “Here not only in location, but in body, mind, and spirit. Here in loyalty. Here in love.” Wishing you well ~ enjoy the remaining days of summer :-)
Thank you, Randall. And sorry for my delayed response. It’s been an interesting summer and start of the school year. I’m busier now than I’ve been in a while. I need to catch up on my blogging friends’ blogs, like yours!! Hope you’re having a good end of the summer as well!