In one's life there are times that are tailor-made for introspection. Probably the most frequent occasions come as we reach certain ages.
My recent trip to Arizona, and the Grand Canyon in particular, afforded me the time and place to consider My Life Unfolding--where it’s going, where it’s been. I sat with my feet hanging over the edge of the canyon, dangling over the abyss, which is not meant to be a metaphor about my life. Although, there have been times when it was appropriate.
I didn’t spend much time on the past. It was what it was, for better and worse. Instead, I found myself in peaceful, thought-inducing surroundings, where I could reflect.
I walked into places that made me realize where my introspection ranked in the greater scheme of life.
No great epiphanies came to mind. Until, that is, I took a hike along the South Rim of the Canyon. Interspersed with brass monuments embedded in the paved walkway, there are signs describing the geological ages of the layers in the Canyon, along with rocks displayed on small pedestals.
Walking east along the rim, the rocks on display were younger in time.
Every three feet I came to another marker, much like adding layer upon layer in millions of years to the Canyon, and year upon year to my life.
Finally, I came to the present time and a rock sample only 525 million years old.
That’s when the epiphany occurred.
Nothing like millions and billions of year-old rocks to put your 69th birthday in proper perspective.
Scram, you carrion scavenger. You’re going to have to look for a meal somewhere else.
Happy Birthday to me, friends. I'm glad you're here to share it with me.
Love, Gully