It’s hard to believe it’s almost August. Summer is already on the backstretch.
Before this season of relaxation and restoration began, I made a list. A plan of sorts about how I would use all the time freed up from teaching and coaching obligations to achieve an ideal summer. It included taking up biking, getting in ten rounds of golf and a couple of tennis games, playing the guitar more often, teaching myself piano and going on a family vacation. On the work and creative front, I had plans to “ship” so many things; two podcast episodes, a few magazine articles, finding a home for a book proposal and launching my latest children’s book.
As the riddle goes, “Do you know how to make God laugh? Make a plan.” Although you don’t need to be God to read that first paragraph and chuckle… and that’s not even half of what was on the list.
With a month remaining in the summer, I’ve played two rounds of golf, no tennis, ridden my bike once, played the guitar a few times, not touched the piano, and haven’t yet planned the August vacation (not for lack of trying). I released the podcast episodes but haven’t placed the magazine articles. The book proposal stalled and I’ve begun planning for the release of America Gives Thanks next month but feel woefully behind.
This list I began the summer with has only grown longer.
So what happened?
Setting aside how unrealistic and misguided the plan was, life happened. Work got busier as I picked up two new partnerships. Other projects stalled or took longer than expected. My book proposal was rejected which has required more revisions. Our children are home from school and have jobs and plans and need rides.
Life is hectic. But it is also good.
The most important things I’ve done this summer never found their way on the list. I had an absolutely wonderful time with my wife on our anniversary. Her birthday celebration was equally awesome. I spent several days with one daughter on college visits. Went on a few runs with another daughter while visiting family. Spend more time just sitting and talking with my kids, just chilling as they would say. During these times and others, there have been many occasions where I simply looked at someone I love and shared a knowing smile.
Seeing one daughter leave the car after driving, brimming with confidence, smiling and reviewing her parking job with a “So smooth.” Looking to my left and smiling with my middle child at a Zach Bryan concert, both of us filled with such absolute joy. Sitting across from my youngest daughter on our patio. She smiled without saying a word. When I told her how beautiful her smile was, it grew larger – as did mine.
My mother and I exchanged smiles when we met her for a semi-surprise visit. One evening we watched old family videos with the kids and just smiled and laughed. Our whole family exchanged countless smiles as we have been watching Ted Lasso this summer, soaking in the sweetness people are capable of.
And there was one night, laying on a couch on our patio all alone, listening to the Red Sox on the radio – like I did when I was a boy – feeling the most refreshing summer breeze wash over me, where I flashed a knowing smile only to myself.
Upon reflection, I have spent far too much time this summer worrying about what I should be doing, instead of finding contentment in just being.
The summer – and life for that matter – is too short to fill it with lists.
Enjoy the final month of summer. Be kind to yourself and others. Resist the temptation to ramp up or prepare for fall. Put away the lists and share a smile with someone you love.
Recommendation for the Week: Check out this video for Benson Boone’s “Momma Song.” and prepare to smile.
Consider sharing this with someone who could use a break from their list.