Stepping off life's constant treadmill.

courtesy of Vladimir Zuñiga of Foca.tk

We have a saying around here about the "rat race." It basically is an analogy of how we humans race around so crazily, and that it may not be the best way to go about things. Most times people use the expression when they are tired and worn out and want to get away from the stress of usual living. "Take a vacation and get out of the rat race." We do like vivid sayings around here, and this is pretty poignant.

I do think the feeling is universal though. We all have times when we need a break, a vacation, a stress-free time where we can slow down and really enjoy life. There's certainly nothing wrong with that, and we probably should slow down much more than we do. Sit down, read a good book (have you checked out mine? hint-hint-nudge-nudge). There's a neat scene in the movie "Collateral" where the main character, a cab driver, stops and pulls down the sun visor. On the back of the sun visor is a post card of an idyllic Caribbean beach. He sighs, eats his lunch, and imagines himself owning a fleet of cabs and enjoying a better life. He calls it his "mini-vacation." It's a great idea.

Pacing is just as important in life as it is in a story. Too much action and you get overloaded. Too little and you're bored. But, spice it up now and again, then you find new life in the adventure and wings to fly higher. Living life to the fullest doesn't mean forgetting to slow down. I've seen too many people burn themselves out by pushing ever harder. Relax. It's not all today. Let tomorrow come on its own terms. Get out of the rat race now and again. Enjoy yourself.

- M