Let Life Happen

How many times have we created a worse situation by meddling with things we should have just left alone? Learning between when to act and when to be still is a trait that will take you far in life. If only I kept my mouth shut at the right moment. If only I stayed away from toxic relationships. If only I made the choice not to be so intrusive in other people's lives. I'm sure I'm not the only one that has told himself these things before. If only we didn't think everything required our input then maybe certain situations could remain peaceful and undisturbed just like this beautiful protected land that has remained naturally preserved for many years.

Traveling to California was an incredible experience. One of the major highlights was driving on Highway 1 through Big Sur. I can now testify that this is a scenic road trip you should consider taking before you die because it truly has amazing, breath-taking views of the Pacific Ocean. One of the few stopping points along the way is this slightly hidden paradise known as McWay Cove.

A pristine landscape that includes the main attraction, McWay Falls, a beautiful 80 foot waterfall that flows all year long and pours right onto the beach. Seeing a unique, natural creation such as this does something to you. For example, it made me ask myself, "Why isn't this in my backyard? Honestly, I wouldn't mind being cast away here for a few months or even a year. I mean just imagine the refreshing showers you could have. Just give me a hammock and I'll be all set. As gorgeous as this area is, there's only one little catch, it's prohibited from going down to the beach area. Those that try receive the gift of a huge fine to pay. Of course there is a viewing point where you can take some time to embrace the awe-inspiring view. It truly is so remarkable that you'll want to linger for a few minutes and just create a deep mental memory to always go back to in your mind.

Those that know me know that I'm an "in the action" kind of guy. I'm the person that ventures off into the woods, in the middle of the bushes and trees, climbing rocks, and jumping creeks, even though there is a perfectly, well maintained hiking trail that you can take to avoid all that. It's pretty hard for me to sit on the sidelines when a possible epic adventure is right in front of me.

Take this shot of me at Torc Falls in Ireland. You notice how I'm the only one in the shot? Well that's cause I was the only one who actually decided to go up to the waterfall instead of staying far back on the trail where all the other 50 people were watching it from. What had me confused was there was no fence, barriers or signs to prohibit you from being able to go explore so I didn't understand why everyone was staying so far back, but I wasted no time in being the first to volunteer and go see it up close. In a way, I kind of put on a little adventure show for all the other tourist. I'm sure most of them were just waiting for me to slip and fall in the water, which it actually did end up happening, but it was wicked fun! My point is I love being able to explore and discover a new place by actually being in it, being a part of it. In the case of McWay Falls, I could do no such thing.

Although my deepest desire was to be able to get down there and explore, indulge in that amazing beach waterfall, (trust me, it was hard accepting the fact that I wasn't allowed to) I understood that it was to keep this amazing cove in it's natural condition. The fact that it goes undisturbed by us dumb humans is the reason why it has continued to be so pristine and beautiful over the years, allowing people from all over the world to come and enjoy its glorious beauty.

Knowing when to keep yourself out of the equation can be the key to keeping balance in your life. The big man upstairs says it in Psalm 46:10, "Be still and know I am God..." In other words, "Chill dude...I got this! Let me handle how this thing called life is suppose to go." Sometimes it's best just to be still, observe and let things be. This life is too short to waste time on problems you can easily avoid by simply doing just that, avoiding or just sitting tight and keeping your distance.

Imagine being stress free by not getting involved with the wrong type of friends.

Imagine having peace in your life by heeding the warning signs of a toxic relationship before it's too late.

Imagine having the strength to let go by knowing there's something better out there for you.

Imagine being still to the point where we can learn to relinquish control, fight our anxieties, and understand that not being a part of something isn't always a bad thing and the future still holds many great and wonderful opportunities you can still be a part of.

Not everything requires our involvement or opinions for that matter. Why force yourself into situations that have no need for your attention?

Now don't get me wrong. Just like how Torc Falls was free to take charge and get in there, I believe there is a time when you definitely need to take action. When you can't remain silent and have to speak up. When you have to fight for what you truly believe. When you have to be intrusive in other people's lives for their sake.

Having that knowledge and wisdom on when to observe and when to explore can mean the very difference between calm and calamity in your life.

Mr. Morgan Freeman hits it right on the money.

"Learning how to be still, to really be still and let life happen - that stillness becomes a radiance."

So relax, be still, take in the view, and let life happen.

#BeStill #Discernment #WhenToAct #WhenToObserve #LifeHappens