on making it last

I’d been sitting there writing at the bookstore for hours. This older couple that I had been conversing with eventually asked if they could read something I’ve written, but since I felt like all I had to offer was scribbles that day, I passed on sharing.

The gentleman said “Well, it’s good to see that you’re passionate about something. Finding value in anything — whether it’s a person, an opportunity, a new recipe, or an old building — it’s really an admirable thing.”

I softly shook my head in agreement and said “Yeah, it’s kinda hard for me not to admire a lot in my life these days, I just hope to make it last.”

They both looked at each other and then back at me, nodding. He got up to go pay for all the coffees they had shared. Then, without hesitating she scooted closer to me and said “I’ve never admired anything like I admire that man, can I tell you something I learned about making it last?”

She didn’t know me well, but maybe she could tell I was a sucker for a good conversation. Either way, I perked up and was ready to listen.

She started as if she had it planned and scripted, “You know, something doesn’t last long because you decide to go with the flow. It lasts long because there is dedication to progression. Sure, you may have gotten on the boat, and gently drifting downstream sounds perfect. However, things last because we pick up the oars and make conscious choices that move us forward. It lasts long because we use the guidance of past lessons we’ve learned, that is what keeps us in the right direction. Drifting leaves you wayside and washed up.” She leaned in a little more at this point and placed her wrinkly brown hand on top of mine saying “Now now, don’t forget that the whole aspect of going with the flow is more than relevant to us all. This is how we find joy and purpose and peace. Going with the flow looks like accepting the slower and the faster currents, rather than expecting no bumps. Going with the flow feels like relaxing around the turns and curves rather than resisting what you don’t have control over. Going with the flow sounds like enjoying what you have even when it’s not perfect.” She’s grabbing both of my hands at this point, “And when you do drift off or — if you’re anything like us — and fall all the way out of the boat, just grab that oar and get back in. Always.”