“We must let go of the life we have planned, so as to accept the one that is waiting for us.” Joseph Campbell
Was 2023 a triumph or a terrible series of challenges? If you are anything like me 2023 was both.
As the quote from Joseph Campbell above so beautifully poses to us, we all face life’s dilemma of reconciling disappointment with having opportunities awaiting us if only we are open to being curious about what is next for us.
…the life we have planned
We are so busy making plans, creating lists and charting how long we estimate it will take for us to reach our goals. The best laid plans, the most carefully detailed blueprints give us the illusion that we have control.
True?
Yes, and in order to move forward with anything, we have to plan and plot. We surely must.
Yes, and also be open to the unknown miracles waiting to happen…
…the life waiting for us.
The life we could not have imagined for ourselves.
The life Spirit has waiting for us.
As I look back on 2023, hosting my first 3-day retreat and a fun vacation with my husband were two highlights for me.
I can still feel my excitement about hosting the retreat over International Women’s Day in March. I infused all the wonderful memories I had of the past retreats I’d attended into my plans for the first 3-day retreat I was about to host. Yes, I’ve had the past experience of hosting on-day in-person and virtual events. This was to be my first time leading a 3-day anything.
Scary! Intimidating! And absolutely exhilarating.
(We had so much fun that we are doning it again! Plans are in the works for the next retreat in March 2024!)
The question we have to ask ourselves is: When do we pivot from altering our cherished and well-thought-out plans and surrender to what the Universe/Spirit/Destiny is directing us to accept?
Maybe it’s when we have used up our last bit of gumption.
Maybe its when we can’t face another round of “What if we do this?” Whether the conversation is out loud with your team, or just in your head. The conversation doesn’t end pleasantly.