Unbuckling a bit.
I saw this heart the other day and sent to a friend who feels these hearts find her for reason. I do too. I do too. Thanks, @heartsfindme. Follow her on instagran and see how her unique brand of connecting with others is starting a movement of shared LOVE. Something we all need more of.
Okay, go ahead and roll your eyes — because yes, I’m going to start this musing with a story about my grandson.
Kids are stunningly real. They’re always teaching us.
The other day my grandson was out walking and I was about to join them. He wanted to get in my car while I parked — truly a 100-foot drive. I let him sit in his seat without buckling the straps. He said, very matter-of-factly,
“Nana, thank you for letting me go without being tied. I don’t like my car seat ties.”
We both giggled. But something in me cracked open. I felt that freedom in my chest.
As I mentioned last week, I’ve been struggling. Lots of plates spinning. Lots of uncertainty I didn’t ask for. You know how collisions like that can freeze you in place.
The truth is, I’ve felt stuck for a long time — restrained, cautious, unable to move forward. Like I’ve been buckled into a very tight car seat for far too long. And the most maddening part? I’m the one who buckled myself in.
I’m an adult. I know how to unfasten the straps. I even have tools to help me do it. I’ve just chosen not to use them.
So today, I’m unbuckling. Just letting go.
It might feel unnatural at first — but it has to feel better than where I am now. Even 100 feet of freedom feels like success.
I’m calling on my real-life friends — no over-explaining required. And honestly, I’m calling on you too — the few hundred of you who read my ramblings with such kindness.
I want to know:
What do you do when you realize you’re stuck in a pattern that no longer serves you?
I’m also reminding myself that there is a power greater than me. Whatever you believe, releasing the illusion that we control everything — or everyone — is a powerful step toward freedom.
Someone recently sent me a story about the monks walking for peace. I loved that image. Today, I’m walking with them — literally and metaphorically. One foot in front of the other. No scrolling. No numbing television. Just walking as far as my feet will carry me.
Walking feels like magic to me. The rhythm, the simplicity, the quiet courage of movement.
Maybe retirement has finally caught up with me — which is funny, because I’m busy. Very busy. But I’ve been doing life tightly strapped into what once felt safe. Painting safely instead of with wild abandon, speaking safely and withholding my truth a bit. Heck even dressing safely. Ha! Maybe it is time for new hair cut. Or a new pair of neon walking shoes.
My world doesn’t feel safe right now — personally or globally. So I’m choosing to run free for a bit.
And I’d love to hear from you:
What helps you unbuckle when you feel stuck? What brings you back to yourself?
I’m listening.
