“Something has changed within me
Something is not the same
I’m through with playing by the rules of someone else’s game
Too late for second guessing, too late to go back to sleep
It’s time to trust my instincts, close my eyes, and leap…”
~Wicked, “Defying Gravity”
The beginning of spring has always been one of my favorite times of year. The first blossoming of all the trees and flowers, the warmer weather, the return of the rabbits and birds (even the ones that like to give a concert outside my window before dawn every morning – although a later start time for this apparent choral presentation would really be appreciated), the reawakening of the outside world as everything comes into full color again, you just can’t help but feel happy amongst it all. And then there’s the symbolism, which the writer in me just loves (I know, I know, that must come as the shock of the year). But really, how can you not love the idea of everything re-blossoming? The notion that it’s a brand new chance to take our lives by the reins and do what we’ve always wanted? Okay, okay, I guess most people probably feel that way when the calendar turns to January 1st, but in a way, the start to spring is kind of like a second chance at renewal and re-inspiration.
Speaking of inspiration, what better way to start your day than by looking out at a beautifully flowering cherry tree? The picture above is the view out my window, what I look at when I sit down at my desk to start writing every morning. I think every writer probably has his/her own idea about the best place to work. They all know what – and where – inspires them. For me, nature plays a big role in that. I’ve said before that one of my very favorite places to write is the shore. There’s just nothing like being able to look out at the sun glistening on the ocean or listen to a seagull giving its signature squawk as it soars against the cotton candy-esque clouds that dot the sky. Someday, somehow, I’m going to own a beach house where I can wake up every morning, sit on the patio, look out at the ocean, and just write. But until then, this pretty view out my window more than suffices.
And then there’s walking. It’s always been something I enjoy, but it’s taken on a whole new meaning since I started this writing journey. I don’t know that I can explain how or why, exactly, but what I do know is that it’s become this wonderful and really helpful way to organize my thoughts. Whether I’m pondering a plot twist or a character development – or even just working my way through all the uncertainties and risks that come from pursuing a career in the publishing industry – that time every day to just think things through has become so important. I often find that my thoughts will just flow when I sit down to write, but when I walk, when I take time away from the “every day” and just focus on the more instrospective and on all the simple, beautiful things you see out in nature, that’s when my thoughts can take me in an entirely new direction. I guess you could say I walk to think, and that “me” time breeds that spark of inspiration in ways that still surprise me.
But one thing that doesn’t surprise me? One thing that never changes? No second guessing. I’m going to continue to trust my instincts, continue to take that leap – because if we make the choice to stand still, how can we ever move forward? Sometimes the sky really is the limit for the dreams we have and the goals we make for ourselves. I don’t know how long it will take me to reach those goals, but I am sure of one thing: if I don’t try, I’ll never get there. If I don’t give this 110%, then who will? I know the road ahead may still be a long one, but this is one leap, one journey, I’m taking with my eyes wide open. After all, if I don’t, how else can I appreciate the view?
There’s nothing like defying gravity.
What about you? What inspires you? If you had your chance to fly, what would you do?
Shari Speaks 
Beautiful tree! I can see why it inspires you.
I took a long walk yesterday and loved seeing all the animals. I saw a baby otter, squirrels playing and two adult geese with two goslings. One of the fluffy yellow goslings was hidden under it’s mother’s wing. All I could see was a bit of yellow sticking out. I also saw two golden retriever puppies being taken for a walk. There is something special about the hustle and bustle of all the little, and not so little, animals starting new families. The babies are seeing the world for the first time and it’s so amazing and inspiring to watch them bravely venture forth.
Consider me officially jealous that you got to see a baby otter on your walk — love, love, love those!! And the baby goslings must be absolutely precious, too!! I can only imagine what a sweet innocence they all must have exuded. I’ve always felt that way with babies, how it’s so special to see them discover, learn, and explore – and I can certainly see how that would be the same with all the baby animals, as well. Watching them so bravely find their way can inspire us to find ours!! :)
Gosh, you totally mentioned one of my favorite songs. Every time I hear it, Defying Gravity chokes me up. Spreading your wings and flying is scary — no one wants to leave the nest — but once you’re soaring in the breeze, it’s all worth it. It’s just about taking that first step off the branch.
(wow, a lot of bird metaphors there, sorry about that!)
Trust me, you never have to apologize to me for using a lot of metaphors … I am ALL about the symbolism ;-) I really love the bird comparison, actually, because it’s so fitting for something like this. That first step off the branch is always the hardest since you have to face the very real possibility of flying with no safety net to catch you … but you can’t soar if you don’t spread your wings, and that initial surge of determination is sometimes all it takes!!
(And I totally agree about Defying Gravity! For Good will always be my favorite from Wicked, but that’s a close second!)
Shari! TALK ABOUT REMINDING US ALL OF THE IMPORTANCE OF DREAMING BIG AND WORKING HARD!!!! Myyyy goodness! This was beautifully written (of course it was, you are a beautiful writer!) and I enjoyed reading it so much.
Keep working hard, our dreams are our destiny, and no one else can fill the void it will leave in this world if we do not passionately pursue them.
Katie! You always make me smile, I have to tell you that. Your enthusiasm honestly just seems to emanate right out of the computer screen. Thank you so much for all your kind words and sweet comments – they really mean a lot :-)
I absolutely couldn’t agree more with you. We owe it to ourselves to work as hard as we can to make our dreams come true – the passion behind that pursuit is so, so important. I know it’s something I couldn’t ignore, no matter how hard I tried … and I like that!