Greetings, Dear Creator –
It’s a foggy morning, here. We’re in a warm stretch, which brings with it the potential for thunderstorms firing up in the afternoons, as the air heats up and creates instability. In fact, last week’s loon watch paddle got cancelled because of the weather, so I’ve been itching to get back out, because I hadn’t paddled again after my first time on open water.
Yesterday was another warm day with possible thunderstorms in the afternoon. Joy and I went to the ODS training site to hike the river trail, and I hoped to kayak after our hike.
We enjoyed the hike, spying chipmunks, squirrels, and many different birds, as we hiked this unfamiliar, fun trail. It was hot and humid, with a lot of sun exposure, so we took it slow and easy on the way back to the trailhead.
Just as we returned to the launch site, the wind kicked up, and it began to rain. I really wanted to get some more paddling practice, but I didn’t think it would be much fun or safe to head out on the water in bad weather.
So, we grabbed an early dinner out, relaxing and enjoying each other’s company. Then, after eating, I checked the radar and decided to head back and give it another try. This was just my second time paddling, and my first time soloing.
I was definitely pushing into my discomfort. Being out there alone, there were moments where my mind would crank up the anxiety; so, I would get still and ground myself, tuning in to the Truth that I was fine, that I was safe.
I’m so glad I did it. I feel I needed to do it, as a critical part of my deep practice.
Here’s a Prompt to consider:
Practicing Risk: This is one of the behaviors in Martha Beck’s The Joy Diet. Today, choose one thing that you desire to do that feels scary. Do it anyway.
Be willing to do the thing you desire to do, even if you struggle or fail. Risk doing it badly. Do it because doing it fills you with joy.
Risking Joy to live in Fulfillment – So Grateful, My Dear Guides!
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