I was talking with a wise woman the other night. Her wisdom quietly blew my mind, as she's only 18 however she's way ahead of where I was at that age. Ahead of so many, of any age, I suspect.
Her history of achievement is quietly spectacular too, both outdoors and academically. She's waiting now ... to see which university is for her, based on her results. Physics and maths are her thing. But so are days out with friends, laughter, and Pokemon Go. She's startlingly well-balanced and confident.
I hesitate to write this but this combination seems like a rare gift in these days. Her parents, her family ... they played a huge role, I'm sure but nothing is ever guaranteed when it comes to how we show up in the world.
Alex and I sat up talking after everyone else had gone to their beds and, much to my surprise, I was gently taken to task for under-valuing my photography.
Although she never said these words, I came away with the idea I should simply get over any doubts that I had then get on with it. Get on with pursuing my passion for photography, as opposed to pacing up and down on the edge of the pier, wanting to swim but trying to make everything perfect before I leap in.
Just sell what I do, and talk of what I believe photography is meant to be. And ohmygoodness, had I heard the story of my life so far??!
But for me, here on the inside of my life, I know all the other stuff. There's always the pre-leap phase. And there have been so many times in my life, so far, where I've felt myself back on that pier that heads out into the lake ... pacing. Wanting to, needing to, jump but so very nervous.
Can I swim well enough? Sure, but should I wear a life jacket just in case I get into difficulties in the water? But wait, why not have a small boat in the water, ready to pull me out? A small boat ... why not a bigger boat, or a cruise ship. Why not wait, save up and buy a cruise ship and then simply dive into the ship's pool then? 100% success guaranteed ... once I have enough money to buy that big old cruise ship.
And on it goes, while I remain there on the pier, ready but not committing.
So, to Alex, I write a huge and heartfelt thank you. You gifted me your idea of me, in that beautifully direct and intelligent way that you have. Never lose it, never apologise for it. You're just kind of perfect as you are.
Wishing every success in the years ahead!! I'm so looking forward to seeing what you do with your life.
