G says that everything is a tradeoff.
Indeed.
For example, the tradeoff for the privilege of filling mouth and tummy with the caloric confections of this day is dealing with that moment at the dinner table when you have to come up with something.
You know.
That “let’s all tell what we’re thankful for” thing.
There are usually two main types of tablemates.
The ones who have no problem rattling off the list of things they are thankful for, from good friends and family to the way that fungus has finally cleared up on the family spaniel.
And those you just know are making shit up so they can eat without guilt.
Historically, I fall somewhere in the middle.
Which is ironic, I’d offer, given that one of my primary motivations in life seems to be going after and/or relishing being the center of attention.
It might have something to do with the fact that there are really only two ways to go with the ritual.
You either simultaneously show sincerity and vulnerability which are tough rows to hoe under the best of circumstances, let alone while sitting at a table surrounded by relatives whose reactions to your sharing could easily influence your status in their last will and testaments.
Or you play the smart-ass card, which never plays well in that moment.
And pretty much makes your getting cut out of the will a lock.
Actually, my problem is that I’ve spent a lifetime creating a persona of smart ass.
So turning into heartfelt sharing boy at the dinner table just feels disingenuous.
Having said all that…
Healthy kids, grandkids, loved ones and healing spaniels duly noted, I offer this thought up as my way of saying thanks today.
People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime.
When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person.
When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed.
They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are there for the reason you need them to be.
Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end.
Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away.
Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand.
What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done.
The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.
Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn.
They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh.
They may teach you something you have never done.
They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy.
Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.
LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation.
Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life.
It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.
Thank you for being a part of my life, whether you were a reason, a season or whether you are a lifetime.
Pass the gravy, please.
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