In my early twenties, I remember spending countless hours perched upon an overstuffed chair in my bedroom, immersed in the creative process of writing poetry or song lyrics on a yellow-lined notepad. At the time, I could never dream my life would be void of this creative process, even with the evolution of priorities and responsibilities.
Writing was like a cherished old friend for me during that period. Always there to listen unconditionally while allowing me to compartmentalize my feelings and discharge them between the lines of my yellow-lined notepad. Some might say it was my form of journaling, easing one’s stress during times of struggle.
Yet some 25 years later, the evolution of priorities and responsibilities seems to continue, and what was once a huge part of my life is now much further down my list on any given day.
For many, it can be hard to accept that our personal evolution of priorities and responsibilities often dictates how, where, and when we employ our time. In some instances, we can no longer simply focus on our own fulfillment as spouses, and other family members now occupy an important place in our daily existence.
This can lead some to resent the current state of their lives and their inability to satisfy some of the desires that once were a large part of who they were.
But I’m reminded of something that Ancient Chinese philosopher and writer Lao Tzu once said, which I’m often inspired by.
“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them; that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.”
Nothing in life is static – nothing. Instead, life is a series of stages – a journey that leads us in many different and often unforeseen directions. But instead of mourning the loss of what once was, we should celebrate the opportunities that often come along when our priorities and responsibilities evolve.
While I’m certainly not as prolific in my poetry and lyric writing currently, I truly appreciate that time in my life for what it was with fond memories – revisiting from time to time and smiling over the experience.
Hopefully, we all have a long life ahead of us. Let things flow naturally and be thankful for the journey.
