Moment of Clarity Amidst Chaos
Do you have one of those days where suddenly you realize that everything you are experiencing that day is meant for a reason? The stars align and you have a moment of clarity?
Well, that was my day today, and it all started with Jem's writing, The Elephant Complex. It was an incredible item to read first thing in the morning and it really touched me. I've been thinking about it all day.
So, I get to work and know that I have a lot to do since I am leaving the office at noon. Why? Well, today is my business partner's and my 8th anniversary. We have had our firm open for 8 years, and it is very exciting for both of us. To celebrate this year, we each got each other "adventures". My adventure was to happen today, although no one would tell me what the surprise was. All I knew was that I should dress comfortably, and my husband would take me to the adventure at noon. It was very exciting at the prospect of being surprised, but also a bit frustrating because I hate not knowing. I like to be in control . . .
So, hubbie picks me up and takes me to Sundance Helicoptours (we live in Las Vegas). As it turns out he and I have been treated to a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon, with lunch at the base of the canyon! So very cool! We had never been to the Canyon, and it was an absolutely beautiful day. The helicopter flying around the Canyon was incredible.
So, here's my moment of clarity. We're flying out to the Canyon, and I'm taking in all the sights. I start to think about Jem's Elephant Complex, as well as how far I've come with our company. It is overwhelming to think about all of the things I have to be thankful for, and yet I don't stop to recognize them nearly enough. Nor do I stop to recognize that I am the reason I have made it this far. It's not just happenstance that has brought me to this level of achievement. I can be accountable for doing great things in my life, not just be accountable for the bad things in my life.
A year ago, I would have respectfully declined the adventure in the helicopter due to my size and weight. Even now, it's a tight fit, and I feel like I'm a normal size. It is incredible to me that I am able to not think twice about climbing into a helicopter with 5 other people and a pilot and not worry about someone not wanting to sit next to me, touching body parts the whole way, squishing my husband to death, just so the person on the other side of me has 1/2 inch more room.
So, of course I start to cry. My husband notices, but thinks it's because the air conditioner is blowing on my face. We have the headsets on so I can't really tell him the real reason, but that's okay. It's my moment to experience all for myself. And I deserve it!
So, cheers to all of us in our achievements in life. Stop for just a few moments today and think about them. Give yourself credit for them. Then take a deep breath and continue on with the chaos that is life.
Angie

Angie:
What a great day! I'm so happy for you and three cheers for all of your accomplishments!
Jem
p.s. If anyone is interested, you can directly read the entire Elephant Complex article I wrote here:
http://jemwelsh.blogspot.com/2006/03/elephant-complex.html