This quote comes from a great Sci-FI series called Babylon 5. One of the ambassadors is talking with his assistant and tells a story of his Uncle who is found crying. When asked what is wrong he responds "My shoes are to tight but it does not matter I because I have forgotten how to dance" The ambassador says "I did not understand what that meant at the time but I do now because my shoes are to tight and it doesn't matter because I have forgotten how to dance."
This quote really encapsulates one of the great tragedies in life, being so wrapped up in accomplishing things that we forget to find joy in living. Like my brothers and sisters I have been thinking about my Dad alot who passed away 8 years ago. One day we were talking and he told me "son do not get so caught in the future of what could be that you forget to enjoy where you are right now." My father lived large, he laughed large and he made an impact on all those who knew him. He was a great example living in the present.
This time of year I like to look at where I am in life, what I have accomplished and what the future holds. I encourage everyone reading to do the same, your shoes may fit now but if you are not careful you may forget how to dance.
Do I make a serious comment, or act like my normal self...
ReplyDeleteMy belt is tight because I forgot how to go to the gym.
There's the answer. I don't know how it applies. Either way...it was strange how our dad was full of wisdom (which we usually failed to notice).
My pants are too tight but it doesn't matter because I have many, many different sizes of clothing in my closet. Too much living in the present, I think.
ReplyDeleteSometimes, I open my mouth and my dad comes out. I guess I heard the wisdom and apply it in various, strange times.
I recently read the life story of Grandma Jensen's mom.(duh, Great grandma to us) She wrote of a time when dad lived with her. He was a little boy. Anyway, the milk man came to deliver milk and she went to get money. Dad said, "Don't worry Grandma, I'll get this" She said "I don't know how he did it, but Stevie always had money in his pocket."
One more funny thing. She wrote that our dad used to hide way up in a leafy tree with a huge water gun and squirt the people who went by. He would do it for hours without being seen or caught. Funny.
Oh, oh I got one!
ReplyDeleteYour hat is too tight because your head keeps getting bigger.
That is mostly for Nate, but I am sure Dave can sympathize too.
My favorite thing my dad used to tell me repeatedly was "You need to read the book How to Win Friends and Influence People." Although that is true, (I have to admit that I still haven't got around to reading it), I don't know that I would call it wise.
He told me that too and now I tell my children especially one of them. I have not read it either
ReplyDelete