This photo about says it all for me as I once again put on the brakes, rest / recover, and move toward new goals. In contrast to one of the posts that began this blog a few years ago which described a person quite broken, this post reflects, in similar circumstance, an extremely worn and tired individual but with a recognizable inner strength and vision just waiting to be released. This event then, must be noted with a current post to mark the moment.
I unexpectedly realized yesterday that the past 3 years have been very productive though perhaps in unexpected ways. I have developed new artistic skills and self awareness, explored new musical paths, made an invaluable new group of friends, grown even closer to my wife, and together we have begun to form a vision of our future. But, in further reflection, these may not have been the biggest gains made during this period.
If I were to label the last 3 years I would perhaps call it 'The Constant Commute' as my main impression is being on 495 driving to or from my job, punctuated with brief moments of eat, sleep, and work, and fueled by music and caffeine. Yet somehow as the odometer measured my linear progress, I was imperceptibly accumulating the intuitive implements needed to blaze a new trail. This period should more realistically be labeled 'Milestone'.
These implements came in the form of acceptance and positive feedback from family and a continually growing group of friends and coworkers who repeatedly and graciously chose to listen, share, commiserate and celebrate feelings of mutual interest. And while these brief encounters provided the balm which made the daily routine less painful, the full weight was not to be realized until the camouflage of employment and blacktop was removed. In this new light these gems transfer their true luminance and register value far beyond their physical worth !
This post then, becomes an homage to all those who helped get me here, I hope I've made it clear along the way who you are and offered some repayment in kind.
So here I am, bouyed by their spirit at yet another beginning, wrapped in expectations, uncertainties and a rough hewn plan.
Until the aforementioned blazing begins, however, I need to smolder a bit.
