Since I was a child, I have loved amusement parks and the thrill of roller coasters. I always feel exhilarated when I get on a ride and the “thrill experience” begins.
Last summer, I was at a park standing in line waiting to experience a new ride. I was trying to stay present and avoid boredom as I waited, so I started watching people in the line. I became fascinated with the variety of expressions, silly games being played and joyous interactions that were occurring. At that moment, it became clear that this was all a part of the ride — I’m not just trying to get to the roller coaster — I am here to embrace every aspect of this experience. That transformative moment made a difference for the rest of the day. Time seemed to move more quickly and the actual rides were filled with my deep desire to savor every moment of each experience. Even the times that I would normally close my eyes, I kept them open. I wanted to “see” and “feel.”
Are you enjoying your “life ride?”
Are you savoring every moment or are you rushing to reach some goal? Is each arrival point just another platform to move on to something new? What if moving so fast through your life is actually taking you away from the beauty of the journey? What if every step — good, bad or interesting — was meant to guide you into a profound expression of your most amazing life? What if there was no place to go except where you are? What if every event, circumstance and experience was exactly what you needed to embrace your destiny?
Pause and really look around you. What do you see? Can you take in the gifts of the moment? I believe this is what we are all here to do. We are here to be completely present and enjoy this incredible life. In the grand scheme of things, our time here on Earth is short. I say we are called to experience life as a powerful adventure and enthusiastically step out and fulfill our purpose. Are you ready? Open and say yes to the ride of your life!
Take a moment to remember this:
Today, I joyously expand my thinking to include the possibility that every second of this day is an opportunity to give thanks for my magnificent life.
