You know, sometimes in life, we get so caught up in things -- the busy-ness of errands and daily obligations; the time-consuming duties of work (essay-grading!!!); the little things or worries that can nag at us on a daily basis. And yes, we can even get too caught up with our writing-- whether it's working out the kinks in a new plot, or even getting stuck inside the Waiting Game when trying to get published.
But last night, I was reminded of what REALLY matters. Real life. And family.
My grandparents celebrated their 90th birthdays last night, and we all gathered to celebrate: three sons (and their spouses), eight grandchildren (and their spouses), fifteen great-grandchildren. All in one room, for the first time in about 13 years. And it was wonderful. We left all that "stuff" outside the door, all the little things in life that get in the way, and just had fellowship: swapping memories, catching up, singing, praying, laughing, even crying. It reminded me of how blessed I am, to be part of a precious, supportive, intact, God-loving family.
Sometimes, as writers, as human beings, we forget to live. To foster relationships and even to look back at who we once used to be. To reflect on memories, to STOP and slow down and soak everything in.
And, you know, doing that -- living life -- will help make us better writers, anyway. We'll have more to glean from, more to mine from, more to use in our stories.
So today, if you're caught up in the whirlwind of life "stuff," stop for a moment. Email or call a family member you've been neglecting. Look back, reflect on easier times. Make plans for a future family reunion. Go out to lunch with a special friend.
Drop everything and just.....LIVE.
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