Plan B

 I recall a proverb attributed to the Chinese philosopher Lao-Tzu that goes something like this: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” A literal interpretation would be that the longest and most arduous venture has a starting point.

When I was young, I believed that anything was possible if I just set my mind on it. Less than a year after graduating from college, I told myself that my dream job as a magazine editor would make me happy forever (or at least until I retired). But after six years of tight deadlines and endless travel, I told myself that I just wanted a career with a reasonable commute. So, I went to work for another 30 years as a technical writer in Silicon Valley: 17 jobs that lasted anywhere from 6 months to 6 years (as well as 7 layoffs that lasted 3 to 11 months).

Looking back, it seemed that my 37-year journey was somehow scripted to happen the way that it turned out. On the other hand, not every step along the way was  so orderly. You see, the endless chatter of Doom and Gloom (those self-centered fears of losing what I have or not getting what I want) often made me wonder what would happen if the other shoe fell.

Well, for today, the other shoe has fallen on solid ground. Day by day, what I receive is what I need, not always what I want – those blessings that I never expect but get anyway. I have a roof over my head, food on the table, clothes on my back, and a few dollars left over for a rainy day. I have my health (physical, mental, and spiritual) despite the many ups and downs. I have the love of friends and family who have supported me through those ups and downs.

I have always had a meaning, purpose, and plan for my life. I just have to remember that it's not up to me to know (or understand) all of the details.