The other day on a walk, a little roly-poly kid cut through the middle of someone's lawn heading straight toward me. As soon, as SOON as he saw me he held up three quarters of an old ragged Frisbee and announced with great verve, "Look what I found!"
I didn't know this kid, never saw him before in my life. He added, not missing a beat, "And I have a dog!" not doubting for a minute I would know the connection of dog and Frisbee. He was elated about this imperfect booty, I was honored that this kid shared the moment with me but mostly amused.
After that I wanted to connect to my fellow humans with something similar. I imagined myself finding a ratty old Frisbee and LOUDLY announcing at the next random person, "Look what I found!" I couldn't see myself doing that and appearing sane especially because I'm the consummate introvert.
Then I tried to apply it to a more age appropriate acquisition, "Look, I bought a new purse, ... and I have lipstick!!!" Then I realized there are some things kids have license to do that we really DON'T get away with as adults without seeming like we have poor boundaries, have mistaken someone for someone else, or are on drugs. But I went and bought a new purse anyway (and lipstick too!!!).
Enthusiasm is contagious. And it just feels good. We make gratitude lists that often list the obvious but leave off worlds of blessings that a little enthusiasm might turn into treasures ... you know ... it's the simple things that make life grand.
They are medicinal when my spirits sag.
I did whatever I could within my little sphere of making a difference and was still feeling down from the tumult in the world, so I made a strange little enthusiasm list. Maybe you could give it a whirl too.
I could get enthusiastic about:
1. A spatula. A spoon just doesn't perform as well, no offense, spoons.
2. The way my freezer defrosts itself, sometimes I can defrost myself too.
3. Smashed avocado with a little lime infused olive oil and salt. Instant gourmet creation.
4. Plumbing that works without a hitch as often as it does. There used to be outhouses!
5. My automatic timed drip sprinkler system for the roses. Left to me those roses would wilt.
6. A handwritten letter from a friend in my mail box. Rare these days.
7. Wearing headphones and listening to cool jazz in a noisy cafe. Rad.
8. Leaning against the washer as it vibrates during the spin cycle. A massage. :)
9. The way the sun creates a moving design on my wood floor. A sun dance.
10. A kid with a ragged old frisbee. (And he had a dog!)
Share your weird favorite things. It's a litany of diversional relief, a different perspective, and the seeds of creative thought.
