“Learn to wish that everything should come to pass exactly as it does.” – Epictetus
I went to register my car this morning. Armed with duck tape to secure my Mylar replacement mirror, the ever present computer and bags of books to leave at the Frenchtown Deli book exchange, I set off for the Department of Motor Vehicles making sure to ‘ prepave” the experience. I was picturing it not too long and easy.
I was the first person in the inspection lane so imagine my resentment when an SVU pulled up next to me and zoomed into the lane before me. I hesitated, decided to let it go and returned to reading my book, 7 Spiritual Principles. Then I started worrying that ‘my’ inspector looked like a “…a tough cookie”. I almost went there, but chose to withhold judgment and all she asked was for lights, papers, have a nice day … no problem.
The lessons were coming really clear, concrete and in my face. There were a few more at the DMV, including the benefit of having a great book, patience, a sense of humor and gratitude. On my way back to my car I heard someone call my name. Joe pointed out that there was some kind of marathon and the streets were blocked so I avoided sitting in traffic, took a detour and breezed on through to find myself stuck behind a big WAPA linesman truck lumbering up the winding hills of the north side. The road was too curvy to pass so I chose a deep breath, slowing down and enjoying the scenery. to chomping at the bit, hyperventilating or trying to pass.
I played with the channels in my mind. It’s so easy to switch to a happier, more downstream channel when we notice where we are. With an intention to be fully present, to take the higher road, open my heart and stay focused on the light and where I’m going – I get to enjoy the ride. I glide past the brambles, the velcro, the zippers and tangled webs – for the most part- and when I don’t, I push off from the banks like I did when I was tubing in the Russian River – breaking free and laughing.
When the WAPA truck finally turned off, I got to see the driver – a handsome West Indian hunk with a beaming smile. He waved. I waved back and drove down the steep hill home, drinking in the breathtaking views out to sea. Walking into my house I spotted Ganesh, the Indian elephant God, remover of obstacles, sitting on my shelf. I couldn’t help thinking of the inner obstacle course I’d just been on and how I’d rounded each pole, enjoyed the ride, and had fun doing it.
.
Leave a Reply