Here’s a thought I’d like to share…
My favorite thing about movies is the ending, and so all my favorite movies have really great endings.” ~ Emma Stone
I totally agree with Emma Stone… I love great endings! I wish I had a penny for every time while choosing a good movie to watch, I’ve said something like, “Does he/she die in the end?” or “Is it going to end well?” I can’t think of a single reason why I would want to get super involved in a story only to have it end poorly!
Similar to my desire for movies, books, and stories to end well, I like… very much… for events and circumstances in my life to end well, too. After all, who wants burnt cookies (check), to get a bad diagnosis from a doctor (been there, done that), or to owe extra money on their taxes (check, and double check)? No, I like turbulence-free flights and safe, 3-point landings!
While there are many events in our lives over which we have little or no control of the ending or outcome (i.e., movies, books, rough landings, etc.), there are many over which we do (i.e., baking cookies, conversations with friends and loved ones, things we write, etc.). If we approach these tasks mindfully, not in a hurried or mindless manner, we have a much better chance of attaining satisfactory outcomes. Rushing mindlessly through anything often makes for lackluster results — or poor endings.
Especially in my interactions with others, I try to be mindful of “being there” with them, trying not to be somewhere else in my mind. I also strive to end my interactions with others on a good note… a smile, a hug, a heartfelt Namasté or goodbye… something that facilitates a good ending – an ending that leaves both of us feeling “seen” and connected. It’s great when we can walk away from an interaction with someone with a smile on our face or a warm glow in our heart. It’s what life is all about… warm, meaningful connections with others!
As you move through the next week, set your intention to be mindful in your activities and interactions. In Shakespeare’s words, “All’s well that ends well.” So remember to “end well,” striving to leave things in a better place than when you started. Be the author of your own story, the director of your own play, and create the path you’d like your story to follow.
Wishing you a lifetime of good endings,
Namasté, Augusta