Too Much Thinking

It was a hard day yesterday. It was one of those times when you think about something that hurt you, and then you start to over-think, and then you just can't let go of it. Over-thinking is not helpful.

But when I went to pick up Mom to see Dad, I saw an old friend from senior club who had moved into the building. I almost ran to her to greet her, and after a couple of seconds, she recognized me and smiled. I was glad to see that she was okay, although I imagine that her move there was probably a difficult one.

We managed to get Dad outside, too. He gets out so seldom because of so many reasons, but we just grabbed him and went. Once we got out in the sunshine and fresh air, his eyes became alert and he looked around everywhere. That was cool.

We then made a trip down to Winona, so lots of time to over-think in the car. I prayed for a little serenity, and frequently when I do that, things start to happen. Little nuggets of comforting things like seeing black cows grazing in green pastures as we drove by. An Amish buggy along side of the road. Red winged blackbirds. A song on the radio reminding me of past happy times. A couple of hugs from Nick. Then later on at home, finding some readings online that let me know that I really am not forgotten or alone with my feelings in this great, big world.

I remembered I used to tell my kids that when they felt someone had slighted them or forgotten about them, it usually wasn't on purpose, but more about that person than them. I know this is probably true most of the time, but sometimes we just fall into our own heads and can't let go of the hurt. Anyway, I should take some of that advice for myself. And I know the past can't be re-written, but maybe expectations can be re-framed for the future.

Now, if I can just stop this over-thinking business ...