I live in the future. I am a planner, organizer, to- doer of the highest regard.
This realization hit me once again this past weekend. Walking into Barnes and Noble, just to look around, I saw them –2011 calendars
Like an eagle diving to snatch its prey, I raced over to the display. So many bright colors and varying formats before me. I felt like a child drooling over all the possibilities at Toys R Us or an addict finding just the right fix. I even held in my hand one calendar dated 2011 and 2012 – two year of planning. I had to buy one. In fact, I bought two.
My husband just shook his head at me. “There is still half of 2010 left you know.”
He is right. I think I can somehow control the future when I have dates and notations for boundaries. How sad to miss the present gifts surrounding us being too busy looking ahead.
I have been reflecting about my reaction of joy and excitement over next year’s calendar. At first I chastised myself for being so future oriented and not embracing the present moment, but now realize that hey, that is how God wired me. I accept that and to be truthful, appreciate that organization is a God-given ability. When I live out of my strengths, I do feel energy, passion and aliveness.
But I also know I miss part of life when I don’t also embrace the present moment.
Dale Carnegie said, “One of the most tragic things I know about human nature is that all of us tend to put off living. We are all dreaming of some magical rose garden over the horizon – instead of enjoying the roses that are blooming outside our windows today.”
Can’t I do both? Continue to enjoy the promises of the future while not forgetting the joy of the present? What do you think?
GLad to know I am not the only one to get all giddy over calendars. and encouraged you think I can live in both. I guess the goal would be don’t lose sight of the present while planning ahead.
Yes, Jeanie, you can. The trick is balance!
By the way, I’ve bought my 2011 calendar, too…!
Jeanie, yes, you can. I know because I see you do it. 🙂
Wow Jean, you are speaking straight into my heart today. I make a beeline for those bright new planners, too, no matter what time of year it is. I love to organize and plan ahead. But you are so right…I miss so much happening the present because I have my eyes so firmly focused on the future. It’s a real challenge for me. I think some people are blessed to be able to enjoy both present and happily anticipate the future…but that doesn’t come naturally to me!
I think you certainly do both! And no one does it better, but this is a post which causes me to pause and reflect on my own attitude toward the present and the future. Thanks. Clella