Life doesn’t always go as planned. The recent incident in Virginia was evidence of that (which makes this paltry lil’ post seem inconsequential), but it’s true. Every day we’re faced with situations beyond our control. Sometimes they’re the result of our own doing and/or decisions, but more often than not they’re the result of senseless acts — or “life.” How we respond to those events is key.
My plans this past weekend included watching the Perseid meteor showers (ditto on inconsequential…), but we had ten inches of rain with thousands of lightning bolts thrown in for good measure. Clear skies were not in the plan. (Here’s a link to The Carpenters’ song for those of you who aren’t familiar with it, or with my post title.) Contrary to the lyrics, I don’t let Rainy Days & Mondays — or “life” — get me down. In fact, my favorite line from the song is “Run and find the one who loves you.” Great advice.
I believe those who perished or were injured in that senseless attack were loved by folks “who ran to find them” — or vice versa. Life is too short and unpredictable not to LOVE others and let them know it. Like them, Karen Carpenter experienced an untimely demise — a brief flicker of hope intended to bless the cosmos — cut short by other’s opinions or actions. (She died of anorexia.) Who will YOU listen to? Who will YOU love and “let know it?” Every day you’re given an opportunity to shine!
Recently I watched the movie Shine (re: pianist David Helfgott) and remembered why I cried the first time I saw it. So much potential, so much damage inflicted! Whether loss of life — or talent — world events seem to be repeating that trend. While we can’t control the senselessness, we can rise above it — gradually, gracefully, and gratefully. How could we possibly be grateful for any of it? Because someone cared enough to show up for what they believed in, no matter how briefly. And, love prevails.
By the way, I did get to witness one ‘beaut’ of a meteor at 4:30 a.m. Saturday morning before the cloud cover took over — a shimmering ball of fire that streaked across the lake. Keep an eye out for brief but brilliant shining stars. Their impact is eternal.
You can shine, too, whenever and however you decide to participate. Show up! Do YOUR thing and do it because you can — and because you love doing it. Make the most of your time on this planet and share your experiences. Don’t let differing opinions (or “life”) deter you from pursuing your path. You never know when you (or your existence and commitment) will be a blessing to everybody.
That said, here’s a sunnier view of my “writer-ly attire” (most days.) Dance with LIFE — even when it doesn’t turn out as planned.
Enjoying celebrating those who show us “how it’s done” with grace,
~ Kim
Dear Kim
Sage advice and sometimes when things don’t go according to plan, that seems like life in itself. I grew up listening to this song and its beauty still brings a tear or two, especially the lyrical line you singled out.
Nice uplifting post, Kim. Glad you did get a glimpse of those meteors. Little inconsequential things are important, particularly when shared with loved ones.
Debi, your last sentence is resonating in my head and heart. Thank you, xo. I was thrilled to see that sole meteor. One is better than none! Here’s to celebrating the inconsequential…
I HATE that song, Kim. And, now, it is STUCK in my head–LOL! There are three women whose voices are absolutely beautiful: Karen Carpenter is one of them. I love her voice. I commented on this topic, of the violence in our society, the other day. Our society is becoming so self-focused that we are becoming sick. We need to become more outward focused. How can we use our time/talents to benefit others instead of playing those mindless games, posting about ourselves on social media, and working to get more money to buy more stuff which we gripe about not having the space to store. Thank you for this post.
Catherine, I read somewhere that when you get a song stuck in your head you should chew gum. Don’t know if that will erase the tune from your brain or not (I’d love to hear why you hate it — I’m sure there’s a story behind it!) — but I agree with you on Karen Carpenter’s voice. (Who are the other two? Do tell!) Thanks, too, for your observations on our increasingly self-focused society. Amen! xo
Oh yes, Carpenters are definitely my genre of songs. This shows we’re from the same generation, Kimby. Awesome thoughts, dear!
Thank you, Shirley! Yup, we’re “oldies, but goodies.” Perhaps the better term is “classic”? :) It’s always uplifting to hear from you, xo!
Oh you struck such a chord in me. Your words inspire and cause me to stop! reflect!
Thank you Kim.
Bless you, Carol! I appreciate that greatly. Looking forward to seeing you soon, too! xo
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Kim. Loved it!
Denise, I’m tickled you enjoyed it, especially since you’re a pianist and a vocalist. Sometimes “music” is the only way I can cope with the world. xo
I meant ‘sometimes, NO many times!!
Ally, your clarification made me laugh! (And think of “chicken backs”. :) Somewhere in the murky recesses of our brains, we know what we want to say but our fingers (or mouths) don’t always cooperate. Thanks for the chuckle!
Sometimes, not many times, I wonder how your brain works. How you find and see things in what seems inconsequential. You have a gift, Kim, for writing, for inspiring, for seeing what there is when there doesn’t seem to be anything other than ‘rain’. Loved this angel! xoxo
Ally, thanks so much! If I refrained from writing every time there’s a tragedy in the world, I’d never write again! There’s so much heartache “out there” — I’m doin’ my best to give the world a hug. (Double hugs to YOU!) xoxo
Oh Kim, how beautifully written and so thought provoking!
You have such a amazing way with your words and thoughts!
I loved this song so very much when it was released in 1971,I was 13 and felt
Karen Carpenter was just singing this for me as she knew how I feeling.
Her voice was a gift to share with us as is your writing….
I thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing your wonderful words on our possibilities
for living our lives!!
xx
Sweet Maddy, I debated two days whether or not to post this — on a Tuesday, despite my Monday title — but my heart said “yes”. So glad it touched yours. I never know where my thoughts (or life) may lead, but sometimes the “publish button” is the only option. Thank you, xo.