On Leaving a Job and Finding Bliss

Halloooo! A fine Monday and my first true day of ‘semi-retirement’ has arrived. 'Semi-' in the sense I'll still be a law and literature professor and - now - a full-time writer, but I’m not going to work for "the man" today, or any day in the future! I’m breathing deep the relaxation of quiet simplicity and the blissful softening of stressed attitudes. 

I had a fine going-away party on Friday with at least 30 or so people in attendance. A lot of very nice comments were made and I will truly miss so many of my (now former) colleagues. But, even on the last day I was given a wonderful reminder, by one person, of how some folks are so locked in to posturing and positions. I almost laughed in her face, but my mellow-ness was sublime so I merely let her exercise her ersatz authority and was reminded of how right the choice to leave was. Regardless, the friends I have and my celebration was heart-felt and warm and I know I made an impact for good while I was there. So, in that sense, it was all good…and it is all good!

So, today I’ve got writing plans and school-work of course. Outdoor activities are certainly in the mix. Ahhhhh, but it is different now. The sky is clearer in that the clouds look brighter and numinous. The geese flying overhead look more alive and physically real and wonderful. The quiet of the house at this early time is more visceral and tangible. Dixie, my Zen dog, is more peaceful. Hell, I’m more peaceful! This morning I read some chapters from my (at this moment) favorite books, did my yoga, and meditated – as I’ve done for many, many mornings – yet each moment seemed sharper and more appreciative if that makes sense. It is as if – and I know this sounds rather cliché-like – that I’ve been half-asleep for years and have now become fully aware and awake. Yeah, yeah, I know that is what countless writers and commentators have noticed…but they are right. Which, in itself, is validation of the concept of slowing down and becoming aware.

It is the truism of the difference between reading the map and exploring the territory. One can read the map, get a good understanding of the lay of the land, and the paths that should be taken. On the other hand, it takes the actual experiential on-the-ground feel to truly understand the territory. And so it is with awareness and the wonder of following one’s bliss. Once the decision is made to strike out and explore the territory, one realizes the joys of being alive and aware. Namaste’.