The Art of Of Not Building Bridges
Sometimes the slightest things change the directions of our lives, the merest breath of a circumstance, a random moment that connects like a meteorite string the earth. Lives hav swiveled and changed direction on the strength of a chance remark-Bryce Courtenay
Some changes look negative on the surface, but you will soon realize that pace is being created in your life for something new to emerge. Eckhart Tolle
I’ve written before about the camaraderie that exists among the crafts people at the shows and festivals we participate in. In this weekend’s show at Alton Bay, we were saddened to hear that this was the last show of “Richard” who has been a fixture for more that 30 years. Wearing his iconic, huge Sombrero, his banter and gregarious personality attracted customers to his successful spices and seasonings booth. Circumstances out of his control led him to the painful decision to change his path and leave the show circuit. In talking with “Richard”, his sadness at ending this particular journey was apparent. I told him his unflappable energy and positive attitude had always inspired me. We ended our conversation with a hug and wishes for good things in the future.
Upon reflection, I thought about the “things” that can totally change directions of our lives. My return to teaching in 1993, came from a random encounter as I was walking our dog. A neighbor who was out walking at the same time, mentioned a teaching job that was opening. He just happened to be the Superintendent in a neighboring town That chance remark led to a beloved teaching career in Gilford Elementary school for 19 years. A spontaneous invitation by my best friend to a local concert, is where I met my husband Ron, as we were walking down the back stairs of the venue. Two chance, random encounters that dramatically changed my life. Like for all of us, circumstances do change our lives.
As Eckert Tolle said, sometimes things look negative on the surface. An incredibly difficult year for me professionally, led to the decision to leave teaching., a career I had loved for 25 years. It was a complicated decision to make, filled with confusion, doubt and conflicting emotions. But it was the right one. Six years later, I look where I am now in my life. The 60 + hours I used to put into teaching, have now given me precious times with the ones I love. I’ve had time to develop my skills as an artist, and to explore other avenues of creativity. I still can teach programs at the local library and have begun writing again. Becoming a jewelry designer has taken me on adventures I never even dreamed about having.
Richard’s story, reminded me that our lives are filled with many challenges and changes, like a road that twist and turns, and is at times bumpy or smooth. My 98 1/2 year old step-dad Al Binder, has told me many times that the power in life and on this journey of ours, is to “be positive”, to not waste time building bridges before we need them (stop worrying and let life unfold!), and to treasure each day ( as we never know how many we have).” Wise advice from a man who has learned these lessons and who has lived life well.