A message to my children, all adults now, who are caught up in the panic of trying to “make it”. I remember that drive, all-consuming, that eventually culminated in my body giving up. I don’t want them to follow suit, but at the same time, I am cognizant of the importance of letting them find their own way. They are, in some aspects, wiser than I ever was, and then again, history repeats itself.
Children, I once read, mirror aspects of their parents, and I see this in each of them: one embodying my anxiety, one outspoken and refusing to suffer fools, the other empathetic and loyal. Perfectionism runs through all our veins: a damnable trait.
Patience, I remember telling my son when he was twelve, is an important life skill. Did I model that as a parent? Likely not. Even today, slowed down by chronic illness, I push against the stream, impatient.
I guess this message is for me too.
It’s a good message for all of us, V.J. Sometimes we know that something is true, but we still have a hard time putting it into practice.
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Yes. We need reminders. Thanks
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I agree with Sadje, patience is a virtue. Admittedly, I am not very patient with myself but feel I am patient with others. In the past, I lived in a hurry-up world and still feel everything has to be done now. Your words are beautiful and relatable.
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I think it is hard to shake that impulse, Eugi. Sometimes I have to remind myself to breathe and just do what I can
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I should take your advice regarding your second sentence. ❤️
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“Possibility is taking flight.” Beautiful. And your words about making it and what matters – so good.
It seems like you have a flying theme lately. Maybe I’m imagining that but it’s beautiful!
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Lol. I likely do. My legs are giving me heck, so I am compensating.
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Perfect way to break away from the things holding us down.
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Exactly
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I feel like our children have the added pressure of how expensive it is just to get by, how much is considered necessary that was not there when we were young. Inexpensive rent, a roommate, and a phone line (without even an answering machine)–that was it. If our bosses wanted us beyond our hours at work, good luck! Now you need internet and ever newer devices and you always have to be available so you can make enough to pay an exorbitant rent. It’s hard to relax in those circumstances. (K)
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So true. Add to that the ‘instant gratification’ of social networks.
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I had to learn patience as a young Navy wife. My entire life consisted of “hurry up and wait.”
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Oh, it would. 😩
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That connecting thread of perfectionism. I love how you expressed it…as a ‘damnable trait’. Agree, agree!
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😊💕
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I have the same damnable trait. It’s a double-edged sword for sure.
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Nice to know I have company! 🥰😉🥰
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😀
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Not an easy one to shake. Keeps rearing its head when least expected
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Don’t I know it!
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Patience is a virtue, but very hard for most people to acquire 🤩😂
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I agree, Sadje ❤️
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😅
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