THE KAIZEN REPORT
#5
We are in the middle of summer vacation season and the question always comes up, “Where are you going this year?” In talking with friends and neighbors, the conversation always turns to the trips we made when we were young. Some reflections are good and others not so pleasant. Either way, the memories convey laughter now. Tales of wonderful trips to Disney, the beach, or major league sports events were great. The funny stories are the ones where the family got lost (I was responsible in North Carolina one year) and drove hours out of the way. Mosquitoes, flies and bears at the camp ground are aggravating. Kids draw imaginary lines in the back seat and dare each other to cross the line. When the line is crossed there is screaming, scratching, hitting and clawing all at 70 MPH. No wonder fathers across this great country are in a hurry to get to their destination!
I had a trusted and wise friend many years ago give me some advice about vacations that can be applied to life too. He said “Enjoy the journey and appreciate each day for what it brings.” Vacations are so highly anticipated and you don’t want them to end. But sometimes we are caught up in the worry of returning to reality and don’t truly enjoy our time away. The best memories come from the unexpected moments when you least expect them. Enjoy those moments too.
Everyday is valuable and time is our most precious resource. Make the most of it wherever you find yourself. There is a time for working, planning, thinking, playing, and resting. Do what you are supposed to do when it is time to do it. In other words, work at your vocation, play at your recreation, give and receive love when with your family, and sleep as much as you can when it is time to rest.
Another parallel is with running. When training for a running race everyday has a purpose that eventually leads to a goal of finishing the race as fast as possible. The training schedule is set up with long runs, easy runs, long fast runs, speed workouts on the track, recovery runs and complete rest days. Skip too many days and you will be unprepared. Run too hard and injuries are sure to follow. Each day has a specific purpose and is important to reach the goal.
We are all on different points along the journey. Wherever you are, find the joy in the moment and keep your eyes on the goal. Find the joy in today. Take the time to look out the window and enjoy the journey.
Your friend,
Greg Eubanks
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