Reticence and Decision-Making

Today one of the sad realities of mortality hit close to home.  One of my vice presidents stopped by my office to inform me than a long-time employee suffered a massive stroke and is hospitalized. We don’t have any more information.  The impact of the news sent shockwaves through the office.  She is a loyal employee and a fantastic person.  I remember talking with her on Friday past.  We have cordial interactions everyday.  There is now a new hole in my life.

This disastrous news puts things into perspective.  The take away: life is short and no matter how “in shape” you are your number may come up at any time.  Live life as full as you can.  You never know when you will not have the luxury. I’ve had conversations with people about what I’m doing and why I’m doing it.  The “it” to which I refer is transitioning.

I’ve been told there’s not enough time to enjoy.  There’s no payback.  It’s expensive along with a multitude of other cautions.  Well there is nothing important in life worth putting off; particularly if planning, preparation and execution are components of the worthwhile endeavor.

No, I’m not cajoling you.  I’m reporting my view of “things”.  It’s up to you to agree or disagree.  That’s baked into the concept of choice.  If you have the luxury of freedom to choose, then choose wisely.  Again, not a caution only friendly advice.

For me there is no better time to advance my agenda.  Why would I wait?  Is there anything to be gained?  You may reverse the question and ask if there is anything to lose.  There is much to lose.  The most important is time.  Everyday we don’t live “our” life is one less day on life’s calendar.

If you’re reticent or undecided then by all means pursue goals at your pace.  But for those of us with measured impatience we mark time by progress.  We not only want the goal we need the goal.  It’s okay to want and need. We all have them; wants and needs.  Determine yours and then set the course.

I’ve been told, most recently by my brother closest in age, that most people at my station in life would be looking to slow down and enjoy our achievements.  He was amazed that I have bigger plans for my life in addition to living the woman I was born to be.  He didn't question my motives.  I think he appreciates the energy and drive to give back.  I understand my calling and refuse to delay the inevitable.

I’m not going to wait for life to come knocking.  I actively seek it daily.  Conversely I’m not going to wait for a cataclysmic event to kick my determination into high gear.  That’s never been a trait I embraced.

So in closing I remind you that we’re all numbers in the bingo game of life.  Our number will come up randomly even if the law of averages appears tilted in our favor.

Love and hugs, Nikki DiCaro