What of These Little Moments??
So many times we never actually “see” the real transformative moments of our lives, except in retrospect. The seemingly mundane times that flit by not realizing the profoundness of their influence for years to come.
Sure we notice the big things, 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, the loss of a job, a divorce or bankruptcy. We think those are the real turning points in our lives and sometimes they are. Not all are negative to say the least. We also experience profound joy with marriage and birth, new jobs and promotions, but what of these little moments?
To illustrate my point, when I was a sophomore in high school I brought home a “D” on my report card. Okay, it was Geometry, but still. My Father quietly reviewed my grades and pronounced my fate, which I awaited on trembling knees.
He explained to me, that since I apparently did not know how to delegate my time, or ask for the help I needed, he was going to assist me. He was going to remove the distractions from my life. Yup, I was grounded. Grounded from the phone, my friends, from all school activities, even my boyfriend for an entire Quarter!!!! OMG, even over my 16th Birthday! I was devastated.
After about 4 weeks into my internment my Father had a talk with me about my situation. He explained to me that he was not angry with me, or wanting to punish me, but instead he wanted me to understand.
Understand?? Understand what I wondered.
He wanted me to see and feel the restrictions I was experiencing. Being grounded was, but a small taste of, the limitation I would experience without an education. Huh? That was a pretty big concept for a 15 year old, but I rolled with it and got paroled for my 16th birthday.
Years go by. I do not ever, ever get another “D”. I go to college. I work at a literacy outreach center teaching adults how to read. Eventually I become the administrator for an Educational Foundation helping others see to their educational needs. I even type up, for my favorite scholarship students, term papers.
Looking back now, I can precisely see the moment the trajectory of my career began. How a 5 minute conversation shaped my adult career life for nearly 20 years.
Can you identify the real turning points in your life? A little self-reflection can truly mine these nuggets from your past and renew your outlook for the future. They can also help you realize where you may have stepped off your path and how to step back on.
Know thyself was inscribed above the doorway at the Temple of Delphi. It is where your true education lies.
Love and Light, Avy
Copyright © 2009 Avalonmare
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