The always honest, always intelligent Meg at Write Meg! wrote about jealousy and the way social networking sites like Facebook allow us to see into more lives to measure ourselves against. Her post spoke to me because I have always struggled with that (have expressed it many times here.) I've gauged my progress against others (particularly when it comes to publishing), desperate to catch up, feeling so far behind where I want or need to be in many aspects of life. I still feel behind. I don't know if that feeling will ever go away. But, recently, I have been just a little more accepting about where I am (that is to say, behind.)
Over the past two years, there has been a lot of construction work on my train, the F train. It often leaves me stranded on weekends, forced to take a bus that sits, stalled in traffic, along a very crowded Smith Street.
Once, I stood next to a couple I think of often. The woman was frantic about needing to get somewhere or maybe just wanting to and there were loud sighs and glances at a watch and a lot of what is happening and why are we sitting and wouldn't it be faster if we just walked? I understood her frustration. If I had someone to voice my concerns to, I would have whined just the same. But her companion was perfectly calm. 'You are where you're meant to be," he said.
That's easy to say. Perhaps, harder to believe. Or maybe not. Maybe it really is as simple as that?
Huh. I love that. "You are what you're meant to be." Hard to remember, difficult at times when you aren't where you WANT to be to believe. But I do believe it. Too true, Melissa. Thank you for the reminder.
ReplyDeleteLovely and true. We are where we are meant to be -- regardless of how I might feel on the matter! All things in time. xo
ReplyDeleteWhat a great story. Something I really needed to hear. I'm not sure that I whine as much as get defensive about why my path to publication has been slow.
ReplyDeleteExcellent advice. No matter where you are in the process, you can spend your time worrying about who's moving faster -- or you can write and live and learn while following your own path.
ReplyDeleteIt is hard to not compare your progress to your peers. I think it is more important to focus on your growth. Don't compare your story or voice to others.... You are a gifted writer and toy producer.... You have many wonderful skills.
ReplyDeleteI know exactly what you mean. Growing up with a disability and for other reasons, I have often felt behind everyone else in many different aspects and sometimes still do. I think I will take your advice and accept where I am now. I can definitely relate to your post.
ReplyDeleteUgh, yes. Wise words. I've felt that woman's impatience, especially on this journey. It's so hard NOT to feel behind everyone else, or as if everyone else is sprinting past us. We do what we can do. I have to remind myself of that every day.
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