I hope this works. Technology “not my thing”!! (meaning the link below)
Spring is happening here in the mountains, but of course I’ve now come to understand that it’s actually just a “teaser”. Snow will return. Freezing temps will return. Don’t push that full length puffer jacket/coat too far back in the closet, I’m still going to need it.
However thinking of Spring reminds me of new beginnings. Also, it reminds me of things that are the same – and some of my longest time friends I celebrate the lasting friendship through the seasons, and the years.
Just like my gardens, some flowers are annuals, and some are perennials. The annuals add bright color and fun, but just for a while. The perennials come back year after year and you can trust that they’ll be there for you.
So what type of friend are you? Annual? Or perennial?
There’s no second chance at this exact moment, no “next lifetime” to finally take the leap.
Say what you need to say. Chase the dream that won’t leave your heart. Tell the people you love how much they mean to you.
Take risks. Try new things. Let laughter fill your days. Do what scares you, because fear often hides the best experiences.
If something is calling you, don’t ignore it. The chance you’re waiting for is right now.
Tomorrow isn’t promised so make today count.”
I’m borrowing this from a Facebook post that one of my trainers posted this morning. When it comes to my equestrian life, I struggle with this all the time. Sometimes it scares me, sometimes it frustrates me, it’s definitely taking a risk here in the last third of my life.
My family doesn’t support me in it, my friends think I’m nuts, it’s a very small circle of people who get it. I question myself all the time – when should I walk away, throw in the towel, wise up?
Then you have a great ride and you have your answer – not yet. You look deep into the eyes of your equine partner and they stick that muzzle in your face for a smell and a rub and a blow and you think – not yet.
But the above quote isn’t just for me and about my horse, it can be about anything. Tomorrow is not promised, so get out there and do what you love, try something new, hug those you love and tell them how important they are.
And I don’t mean actually cleaning the physical house. UGH! What I’m thinking 2024 is for me is the year I’m finally gonna get “real” about relationships, both long term and short term.
Some people lift you up, some drag you down. Some people meet expectations and exceed them. Some people you keep lowering your expectations and they still disappoint. Why do we do that to ourselves?
So by cleaning house, I really am saying that some people I thought were friends, you know, the forever type? I’m moving on. It’s too exhausting to be the only one vested in the relationship. It’s too disappointing to forever be offering graciousness and latitude, gifts of kindness and opportunities, and get nothing back in return.
I know you should not “give” so that you will “receive”, but at some point the “give” doesn’t even get a thank you or an acknowledgement? And the repeated yearly “gives” become expected vs appreciated.
I just had some friends from my old hometown visit here in the mountains and we talked about life, the past, the future, shared many topics and opinions. One of the funnier conversations covered Christmas cards. One of the people that I always send to, and who never sends back, mentioned that she doesn’t spend the time or money to send them but she really does enjoy getting them and hopes to continue to receive them. I think I must’ve done a head tilt and a “huh”? Don’t you think I enjoy receiving them too? Am I not worth the cost of a stamp and the time to address a card?
I know what you’re thinking, I’m being silly, I’m being too harsh, I need to get over it. Maybe, but it just struck me that the only way to quit being disappointed, is to quit setting my self up for it to happen. So I’m cleaning house, and surrounding myself with those who appreciate my friendship, who value me as a person and understand that I am worth your time.
And I suppose I’ll be addressing fewer Christmas cards this year. (sorry for the rant, but sometimes you just need to)
suddenlysinglewomen 