On the Wall

April 28, 2016

Picture

​Where do you go to observe the world?  Do you have a quiet place from which the view is clear and you’re not bombarded with life’s intrusions, at least for the moment?  My Welsh Springer Spaniel does; it’s atop his wall.

You might not think it from this regal pose, but Rhys is seldom still when outside.  He’s a serious hunter; he’s relentless and fully-engaged in his pursuits.  His name, literally translated from Old Welsh, means “enthusiasm”. And that describes him perfectly.  Rhys approaches all aspects of his life with great joy, but especially when fulfilling his daily mission, which is to capture things.  (For the record, he’s a “catch and release” sort of fellow.)  I’ve never known such a happy dog.

We all need a place to pause and reflect; for Rhys, it’s on the wall.  His wall.  He never stays up there for long, but it’s a fine place to survey the landscape and consider his next pursuit. Then he’s off to the next thing in a flash of focused energy and fur, white-tipped tail held high like a personal flag as he springs across the property!

When we’re in the thick of our own daily pursuits, it can be difficult to pause and survey the landscape. But it’s critical to do so, both literally and figuratively. Only then can we clearly see what’s been accomplished and assess what to pursue next. A brief pause, in the right location, offers both rest and perspective. Your special place may be perched on a wall, a dock, in an office, under a tree, in a favorite open space or even in your car; where doesn’t matter nearly as much as what the brief respite affords you.

Take a tip from Rhys and find your place on the wall.  Briefly reflect on and appreciate what you’ve accomplished, then fix your sights on what lies ahead.  Plan your next move.  Then…….Enjoy the Journey!


10 Comments

  • Ian McLaggan

    8 years ago

    I so agree. Take the time to reflect or you get too caught up in the business of the day.

    • Thanks, Ian. That moment may be all you need to reflect and refocus.

  • Bryan Calhoun

    8 years ago

    Fantastic read Bill! Thank you for sharing!

  • Greg Hodges

    8 years ago

    Bill,
    Perfectly stated. I could not agree more. So many times I will rush through the day trying to accomplish all the task set out before me. The overwhelming burden of shear quantity sends me into a split second panic. At that time, that very instance of no control, the only solution is to climb up on “the wall”. My minds eye has forever captured a piece of perfection and whether it be in my car, my office, I have found no comparison of solace. Cumulonimbus and alto stratus clouds are sailing as slowly as I am in the middle of the Nicoya Peninsula Bay. I have sailed many places and seen phenomenal beauty, but this is where where my wall is. Last year I took, my then Fiance, Megan to this very location. She often asks me when I am deep in thought, “Are you here… or are you in the bay?”. What is even more amazing is how she has now adopted “my” perfect spot as her own.

  • Andrew R Plummer

    8 years ago

    Without a doubt the key to clearer vision and smoother approach for your day, preferably with a short cigar for myself.

    • Sounds like you’ve found your own way to kick back and enjoy the (short) moment!

  • Melissa Paley

    8 years ago

    I love this! Thank you for sharing Bill!

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