Scheduling Surrender

This morning  Shannon, Kashi  and I ran 7 plus miles.  It felt so great!  I loved checking off the little box on our schedule that said: 3/23 run 7 miles.  Anyone else love to check off a box or mark off something on the todo list?  Following a plan is energizing.  That is how I love life.  I remember grad school having the list of the classes I needed to take and slowly checking off the boxes as I completed classes.  I love to have a plan whether it is saving for a vacation or preparing for a run or even making a conscious effort that Tuesday night is date night.   

However, I've also been reflecting on the times in my life when I had a plan or a dream and for reasons out of my control - circumstances, health, someone's else's challenges, ... the list goes on,  it didn't go as planned.  That is not easy and so much harder than being able to check off the box.   As I reflected on this and in looking back, I also recognize that much growth and transformation happens when I am not in the times of checking off the boxes.   My group on Monday shared about some of their transforming experiences and the following quote was processed. 

If you've read my blog much you know one of my favorite authors in my work is Dr. Alan Wolfelt.  He states:  This is what I am face with right now in my life's journey.  While I'd like it to be diffrent, I must allow myself to face the reality of what is happening -- when you surrender you release attachment to how you feel your life  should be and invite yourself to be in the presence of your life exactly as it is.  While naturally difficult to do, surrender is an act of courage.