My life, over its span thus far, has weathered significant change.
I know I’m not unique in this, but both as a child and as an adult,
I’ve lived through a number of transitions,
a multitude of moves, two marriages, and many homes.
Some people I know have lived in one place throughout their entire existence.
I try to imagine what that’s like:
living in the same town you always have, where you’ve always belonged.
Some of my upheavals, both personal and professional,
were unexpected, unplanned, and downright painful.
Other transitions were dreamed up, longed for, and finally brought to fruition.
And yet, these changes have pegged me as somewhat of an unknown,
a newcomer who will probably always feel
a little like someone on the outside, looking in.
Being an introvert at heart,
this is not as strange a designation for me as you might think.
My “rich inner life” keeps me warm and happy.
I let myself love and experience all the things that mean the most to me.
I allow myself to belong in this life I’ve created,
just as everyone belongs to the bigger picture that is the universe,
to bear witness to a journey filled with joy, sorrow, and exquisite beauty.
Perhaps Mary Oliver* said it best:
*“Wild Geese” by Mary Oliver (full poem)
Where do you feel the greatest sense of belonging?
What is “your place in the family of things”?
A special thanks to Kath Unsworth,
who shared the poem on her Facebook page
and inspired this post. ♥
Like this:
Like Loading...
Seagulls squeal a spring duet
Jennifer's Journal 