Wednesday, August 29, 2007

it's all how you look at it...

It seems so important that I get all of my things done every day...go for my run, get the laundry started in the morning, sweep the kitchen floor (8 times a day), do the dishes in the sink, make a poster for PTA, and the list never stops. And then, it's interesting how one 5 minute phone call can change your entire perspective on things; on life. All of a sudden, every "to do" on my list is completely unimportant...so miniature on the scale of what matters.
It's like the hang nail on your index finger, that just hurts, and irritates you constantly. You just want it to go away, it's really annoying. And then you fall, break your arm and have to have a cast for six weeks...all of a sudden that little hang nail sticking out at the end of your cast seems like no big deal...in fact, you would be THRILLED to have JUST a hang nail.

Being together with family, calling loved ones far away, and building bonds and friendships with people has a bigger meaning to me lately. I learned the hard way that I should not wait until the "perfect" evening or when the house is "just right" to have those friends over for dessert...they might have to pick up and go without too much notice.
I also know that I have certainly been taking too many things for granted. Time just slips away. I am going to be more grateful for moments I have with my family and with my friends close by. Those far away will be called more. Those near will be visited more.
It all comes back to your perspective. It's a shame that it takes something scary or awful to help us open our eyes, but in the end, it really is a blessing. It's beautiful to look with new eyes.

7 comments:

heidi said...

Kelly, isn't that the truth? I am going through my own "stuff" too, and it makes you have a greater appreciation for your loved ones, near and far. Good luck with your "stuff". If I can help with anything, let me know.

Anonymous said...

So true, So true. WE LOVE YOU SOUTHWELL FAMILY!!!
Mom and Dad "J"

cara lou said...

Very well said. I realize this more everyday, too. We have to remember to look at the big picture. :)

Thanks for sharing. And I'm so glad we got to visit last weekend -- John and I both had fun. :)

We love you guys.

Amy said...

You really put it into perspective. Great post!

ali said...

things can change in the blink of an eye! You are so right. Here's to the beach house! I hope you guys have the greatest time EVER!

sheena said...

Kelly you make me bawl my brains out! On the phone when you said "new post" I had no idea this is what I was in for!

All I can say is I'm SO excited to see you and for everyone to be together!!

Heather said...

I have had those experiences on several ocassions and think I will never forget, but then everyday life takes over and I forget. It always takes someone leaving or life changes of my own to make me really step back an see the whole picture. Thanks for reminding me! ;)