I walked into the compass buried in the street sidewalk from the north. The walk’s reflection had spanned decades. So much has passed by on the left and the right. I feel as though there is so much ahead of me, even as what is behind fades in the distance. I smiled when thinking of the path others have taken. One put it this way: “With the help of a bottle of wine and all the wisdom I could muster, I tried my level best to penetrate the absurdity of life. I wanted to get a handle on anything useful we mortals might do during the years we spend on this earth. I Never Said No to Myself” (Ecclesiastes2:3). I know I never said no to my dreams, even when I was unsure where my dreams were taking me.
Life is an exercise in building, starting with oneself. I focused on many things, leaving myself as a secondary focus until late in life. If I could share any advice with my younger self, it would start with self-care and healing. Build a solid foundation, nurture it well, and then move slowly to include those closest to your heart. If one has any doubts at any point, pause, reaffirm the foundation along with the work on each level, and only then continue building. The project will last a lifetime, build an edifice you can be proud of.
Life’s directions are not always linear and to the plan. At times, there are storms, currents pushing to the left or the right, and darkness everywhere. I would remind myself of a compass’s role in keeping one focused on the goal. Be prepared for change. Be ready to check yourself. Allow yourself time to mature and develop before charting a new course. If one is willing to take the first step, there is a journey to be taken.
I recalled walking through the points of the compass, letting the celebrations and highpoints stand tall. I know there is more work. Each day is a stone to shape and lay.
