Sometimes I run across a quote that hits just the right spot at just the right time, like the quote above by Toni Morrison. I don’t remember where I first saw it or what had caused me to save it in the first place, but when I came across the quote again while weeding through computer files today, it really resonated with me.
I’ve been spending some time recently giving up, or more correctly getting rid of many things that have been, both figuratively and literally, weighing me down. My efforts have included clearing out computer files; shredding decades of useless paperwork (from my parents!); giving away unnecessary furnishings; and donating clothing that, no matter how cute it is, I am never going to wear again.
I feel lighter already.
Some of my other “letting go” efforts have been less tangible, but equally refreshing. I’ve refused to spend another minute worrying about whether I will or won’t get the job I recently applied for; I’ve stopped forcing myself to continue working on a story I lost interest in a long time ago; and, most important to my peace of mind, I’ve started doing more of the things that bring me joy and fewer of the things don’t. I have a sign on the wall that says “Take time to do the things that bring you joy”, so that I don’t forget that last one.
I can just feel those wings starting to sprout.
At this rate, I’ll be flying in no time.
This seems like the perfect time for a little “letting go” since in just a few days National Novel Writing Month will kick off and then all thoughts will turn to hitting that daily 1,667 word goal.
Here’s hoping my recent efforts have left plenty of room for inspiration.
So how about you? Are there things weighing you down that you need to let go?
Eight Ladies Writing 
Well, I definitely have days when I want to cut my leg off. I think that would make me a lot lighter.
One thing I find interesting about myself is that when I feel burdened by events, people, issues, things beyond my control—I often gain lightness by giving something away. I donate clothes, or write checks, or find a way to give up something of myself, however small and however unimpactful it is. Just the gesture of giving away seems to lighten the load. In fact, maybe I’ll write a check today. Beats cutting off my leg!
Write the check; keep the leg. 🙂
I like the though of gaining lightness by giving something away. I’ll have to add that to my list of things to do.
This is a timely nudge, Elizabeth, thank you! I’ve realised lately just how much Stuff I have. Some of it needs to go, some of it came from my parents, and some of it I like a lot, but if I haven’t worn/used it in the last ten (or twenty) years, then perhaps somebody else could make better use of it.
I think I’ll take a leaf from Kay’s book and start small–find something to give away each week.
Thanks, both! I feel lighter just thinking about it 🙂
Jilly, glad the idea resonated with you. Sounds like we’re all members of the “give it away” club 🙂
I have just been diagnosed with a hernia, and am on day two of taking Lyrica — which the internet tells me hasn’t been proven for lower-back pain, but is used for anxiety. Since I think my hernia is stress-related, I don’t blame the doctor for prescribing it. I can say my attitude is pretty buoyant, and it just remains to be seen if I can translate the buoyancy into writing. (-: Just want to take a nap first.
I can’t believe how much my feelings (letting go of anxiety) mirrors this theme of flying.
Sorry to hear about the nernia, Michaeline. That does not sound like any fun at all.
Good luck on translating your new Lyrica-induced buoyancy into writing. That and the nap both sound like good ideas.