Life Lessons

Last year, I enrolled in the Transform course.  My family reunion is always the week in July with the 15^th in it.  Sunday noon to Sunday noon, rustic cabins and communal meals.  The second lesson in Transform was the Friday when I was at camp.  I was going to participate on my phone, but I ended up missing most of the session.  I was majorily pissed that I couldn’t participate as I had planned.  But like most of life, I had conflicting priorities.  It all worked out, as it almost always does.  Relax dude.

Next Sunday starts this year’s reunion.  The 45^th.  We have consistently shown up – average attendance is about 60 folks. It has been a personal and family priority.

Life lessons are overlapping. 

Through Transform, I have learned to show up for my art, just as I have done for family – consistently.  I now spend a part of each day thinking about, drawing out, making, marketing, updating inventory, and/or researching the art of silversmithing.  No more minutes in the day than last year, but I am more focused.  My skills are better.  My designs are less constrained.  I am excited again about making.  Cool beans.

This last year has also been one of deconstruction for me.  Deep philosophical shit.  Deep religious shit.  At 71, I am more me.  I have learned “no” is a complete sentence.  I unapologetically go commando.  My social circle tends to be a few generations younger than me.   I no longer argue with folks who do not believe in science.  I cuss more out loud.  OMG – am I closing in on contentment?

Saturday I will make a large pot of white beans and ham for Sunday evening at the reunion.   Maybe even bake some cookies.  I have my list of must haves for camp (bedding, fan, bug spray, meds, bi-pap, etc.) and will begin packing soon.  This week is full of prep.  The following week is laughter, food, games, memories and loved ones.  Every year for 45 years I have followed a similar routine. 

Set priorities and show up.  Let life lessons overlap.