I started this blog several days ago as I reflected on the things that have changed this year. As I have said before, fall and winter are nature’s time for reflection. In the fall, nature is preparing for the time of reflection. In the winter, nature rests…reflects…allows the seeds of life to quietly get ready for the growth of spring.
This past week was such a full week of activity that I felt the need for some reflection.
Old: I want to be healthy. New: I am making choices that include fewer fried potato options when I am out, yet I am still cooking with potatoes at times in my own kitchen. I’m choosing sweet potatoes more often. I’m eating a variety of vegetables and adding an occasional V-8 at in-between times. I am eating more fish and less beef. Chicken is sometimes included, but I am trying to have it more often grilled or baked rather than fried. I still like wings, though, but I indulge less often. Desserts are fewer…with choices focusing on less highly sugary treats. Instead, I eat more fruit. I also have added nut/fruit bars for those crunchy snack times. In addition I eat less overall and am opting more often for liquid refreshment – juices, teas, water.
Old: I want to be physically strong. New: I am not really sure exactly what is possible at my age. I would like to be able to do what I need to do about the house and yard without having to wait until someone is available to help me…(i.e., lift a bag of soil). Sometimes I need to find a work-around when my strength is not enough. I joined a gym, but exercise alone is boring. I did not maintain my attendance. I tend to think of outside yardwork as exercise, but it is sporadic. So…I am looking at dance, yoga, tai chi, and possibly taekwondo.
Old: I want to learn a new language. Well, actually, the old want was more like, I want to be able to converse in Spanish, a language I have studied off and on. I have also done some study in Hebrew. New: I have thought of trying Babel…or getting some of our old language CDs out…so far this one has not found its new expression. As I get back to synagogue attendance, I find that I would like to learn more Hebrew, just so that I can be more fluent in the services. I need to give this one more thought and find out what it is that I am committed to trying now.
Old: I want to travel. New: Well, it was not what I had in mind exactly in the past, but this year I have been to NC, SC, and GA for leather events, VA for a college reunion, and FL for my Mom. For someone who seldom left SC, this year has involved a lot of travel. I still want to tour and go to new places. I think I will do that via the Road Scholar programs. They somehow appeal to the travel bug in me and the love of learning. Now to figure out the finances.
And, that is where my reflection ends for now. I am no longer wishing my life but actively taking steps to do or, at least try to do, the things I wish for. Sometimes, I find that the wish has changed…or the particular wish is no longer as important…or that how the wish is expressed has changed. As long as it feeds my soul, it is good.
Feathers of My Mind 