It's a Long and Winding Road

We each have to find our own paths in life. And there's never a straight, predictable route through. For most of us it's a long and winding road filled with unexpected detours. And you just have to learn to take it as it comes, because plans we make, rarely work out. I'm trying to take every opportunity here and just see where it leads.  That applies to my continuing search for a future, and my  search for what I consider the real Ireland. And this weekend it took me to Clare Island. Just off the coast of Westport is an island that is a throwback to an easier time and a reminder that life doesn't have to be hectic. It is the antithesis of the rat race of everyday life in the United States. 

There are about six cars on the island and that means you can get a ride, and we did a few times, but in general, people walk. We did a lot of that too. It's a good thing we did because if we hadn't been on foot we wouldn't have seen all of the magic of the island. 

The beaches, the beauty, and the raw charm of the people who live there was amazing. 

We all find the places where we are at peace. For some it's the mountains and the trees. For some it's sailing on the sea. I'd have to say that this has got to be one of the most peaceful spots I've found for myself. It's a world away from Reno, it's even a world away from Dublin and Galway. It's a world where you can be alone with your thoughts. Well alone with a bunch of sheep and a lot of history surrounding you. 

This is the kind of place where people just choose not to worry. Well, maybe they do worry, but not about getting a bigger car or sending their kids to an Ivy League school or even buying a summer home. Instead of living for the future, they live in the present and enjoy it. They accept life as it happens...hoping for the best and preparing for the worst. 

The tide goes out and yet they know it will be back in tomorrow.

So enjoy what you have, while you have it. Look for what you want out of life for yourself, not what will put you ahead of someone else on that hamster wheel we too often mistake for getting us somewhere in life. I know I wouldn't have wanted to miss this part of mine. It is a step back in time to a place where I think we could all learn a bit about just slowing down. Seriously, who could hurry past views like this?