10.23.09
The Survival Kit…
Life is an error-making and error-correcting process, and nature in marking man’s papers will grade him for wisdom as measured both by survival and the quality of life of those who survive–Jonas Salk
We’ve all seen the shows. One man braves nature by being stranded in some obscure destination wielding only a pocket knife, some duct tape and 2 days worth of rations(ok, maybe a slight exaggeration…but you get where I’m going). He’s there to prove he can defy the odds. He’ll take his duct tape and three small twigs and construct an eight room, lavish mansion. By adding a few berries and leaves to his two days rations, he’ll whip out a three course meal fit for a king. And with his handy pocket knife, he will conquer the beasts of the wilderness single-handedly with ease.
Chances are we will never be in this insane of a situation. We will however have our own personal challenges to face. Each of which will require a unique tool to overcome. As I go through this current stage of life, I realize the importance of the elements I need to keep me happy and sane. I am blessed enough to have the following people around to ensure that no matter the challenge, I will survive regardless of how massive the obstacle may be:
1) The Family: They may not be perfect, but when you’re with them you realize who you really are. They are there to be a constant reminder that you must win these battles of life, for without you, life would not be the same for them. You may not live close or see them as often as you like, but they will always be just a phone call away. And though there are days when you just want to give up you will not, if for no other reason, for them.
2) The True Friends (who know you better than you know yourself): They are invaluable. They’ve seen the good, the bad and the outright ugly moments. They’ve experienced the tears, pain and insecurity. But they always know when to step in and when to let you learn the lesson on your own(and show up with a fine bottle of wine later). They will support your decision, no matter how crazy. And will always be there to pick up the pieces if you fall. And if they are truly great–they will document your disasters on film so you can have a Martini and laugh about it later.
3) The Opposite Sex Friend: He or she is strongly relevant. They are your glimpse into the other side of any relationship you take on. They should be brutally honest, but always have the ability to make you laugh when you feel your worst. They can sit on the phone with you and talk about nothing when you need it. This is the person who makes you leave the house, even at your worst, to try and convince you life will go on after your last nightmare of a relationship.
4) The Club: That group of friends that are always around. They are there for the Holiday parties, the kids birthdays, the first soccer games and the infamous annual Girls Shopping Spree and Marguerita Night. Their kids are your surrogates. They know to call you when your favorite movie is on tv. And will schedule a movie night with them on a Tuesday night after you have worked straight for a month without a break, just to get you out. They keep you grounded and remind you life is really about the simple things. These memories with them will always bring a smile to your face.
5) The Significant Other: That man or woman who makes your day better with just an email or text. This person actually makes you want to believe in the fairy tales. He or she is capable of giving you that feeling inside like your soaring down the highest hill of a rollercoaster. You feel safe in their arms. With one look in their eyes, you know its worth all the pain it took to get here. And with them, everything seems possible. For failure seems a faint memory of the past. And if ever you should walk through the door in tears, the first words out of this person’s lips are “Whose ass am I kicking today, baby?”.
These are the people who help me survive anything. They give me an amazing strength that’s infallible. They share the tears and joy. And inspire me to conquer it all.
For without this survival kit( #1–The PC Sister, Techy Brother and The Neighbors, #2–The BFF Cali and BFF Florida, #3–The Italian & #4–Gina, Lynn, Heather, Tiffany, Connie, Mary and Sue, #5–You know who you are) I am but an empty woman.
For I may not have it all together…..but with my survival kit, I so have it all….
