Shooting the Rapids

"The years stretched before her, a long and dusty way, yet if she could

walk humbly along it she might find that life, unfolding slowly, 

keeps its best secrets till the end."

Elizabeth Goudge

With pleasure, I recall four different canoe trips I made portaging into Canada.  Each one is filled with excitement, bravery, and courage.  Although I had a deep appreciation for the same friends every year, my heart was endlessly smitten by the offerings of the water. Sleeping in tents for two weeks was adventurous, but I wouldn't choose it today.

If I have learned anything over the years, it is to deeply enjoy every moment presented before me, as time will pass and one may never return to the current experience at hand.  Through memories we can continue to cherish, while in the present, capture glimpses of what life has to offer.

It matters not where one happens to be on his or her timeline, the key is opening up to what is before us.  Life is wasted mourning the past, or wishing for second chances, as the energy could be invested in the day to day experience.  As we adjust our expectations, sitting on a deck sharing the morning with the birds; wandering in a museum; listening to music; or attempting a new project can be far more fulfilling in the present than shooting the rapids like years ago.