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As a kid I can remember playing on the playground. Swings, teeter totters, and slides were usually an option, but monkey bars were also usually readily available to play on as well. The goal - to swing grip by grip from one end to the other without falling.
While it takes a certain amount of arm and shoulder strength, it also takes momentum, courage and a touch of acceptance of uncertainty. You see, in order to move forward, you must let go with one hand, hanging a bit awkwardly until you grasp the new bar. So long as you hang on with both hands, one in the past, one in the present, no forward progress can be made. And what makes the progress even more successful and probable is to build up a bit of momentum, a steady swing of the body.
Progress in life is somewhat similar. We cannot know with absolute certainty what will happen in the future, but we certainly will never find out if we continue to live in the past, mulling it over, over-analyzing and letting it hold us back as we assume because particular events played out as they did, they must always follow the same course. Such a mindset is what not letting go of the past can cause, and it is death to progress.
The perilous part is the letting go of what you know, of what you thought would work, but didn't, of what worked, but didn't have the effect you imagined it would. But instead of brooding so unnecessarily long at the past, let it go. Learn the lesson and find a wave of inspiration to propel you into the future.
This past week I was down in Portland moving out my furniture as my plans have changed. It wasn't an easy decision, but it was the right decision, and I'm excited about the momentum I've built up to go forward. Do I know exactly how the next stage will go? Nope. But am I taking the lesson I learned with me? You better believe it.
Progress can only happen if we let go of what we thought would work but turned out not to. We must be brave enough to let go of what was and swing toward something new, even if we aren't quite sure what it is just yet. So long as we have one hand in the present and are clear about our focus and our direction, something amazing will occur when we swing toward our future.
In this week's newsletter, an update of a readers' favorite went live on Monday, and it quickly became the top post of the week. With updated links, the 10 Essential Shoes Every Woman Should Have is something you might want to take a look at to see how your checklist is coming.
Also, when summer arrives, it means stripes are going to be worn, so I was excited to share where exactly I purchase my nautical tops. While a young company, it is a company that produces quality, classic tops, tees, dresses as well as other clothing to enjoy this season.
Lastly, as I mentioned, I was in Portland this week and had a wonderful time. Having returned yesterday, my focus is now on the yard sale that I spoke of earlier in the year. Much of the furniture you saw in this post and in Instagram pics will be for sale, so if you are in the Pendleton area and want to stop by - (check in the local paper for the 2nd Annual Fashion Lovers Yard Sale for directions) enjoy perusing through the furniture and decor, as well as clothing, accessories, shoes, kitchen items and other treasures.
Needless to say, my goal is to get everything organized today, hopefully met a few of my readers and have a successful sale, and then find a cool place to relax on Sunday.
Whatever your plans entail this week, have a wonderful last weekend in June and until next week, I'll see you on the blog.
-Shannon |
