Occasionally there are small moments in life that leave a lasting impact. As I think about my intentions for the new year, I am reminded of one of those small incidents, years ago. I was sitting on a bench at the old Union Station. An old man sat down next to me and we engaged in conversation. I asked him where he was headed and he replied with glee, “San Francisco!”
“Wow”, I said, “that is a long way to go on the train.” His reply: “There is as much fun in getting there as there is in being there.”
This man’s answer has stayed with me and I often think of him in these situations:
- When I am too focused on getting to the outcome
- When it’s time to pause
- When it’s time to remember to be in the moment
In The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World, by Desmond Tutu and Dalai Lama, these two amazing seers, inspire us with their tales of being in the moment and experiencing joy, even in the face of adversity.
I wonder if my traveling acquaintance, from many years ago, realized that he had seized on the secret to joy.
Perhaps something to consider in the new year?
The initial results of my Pivot are excellent. I feel I have much greater clarity regarding the next 3-5 years.. 