I don’t really believe in fate — but if something makes sense to you, if it resonates in some way, then I say take it.
I’ve been an admirer of Glennon Doyle since I first came across her, though I can’t remember if it was via her TED talk or a podcast episode she did or somewhere else. Her approach to this “brutiful” (brutal + beautiful) life is equal parts realism, hope, and humor.
I follow her on Instagram, where she’s promoting her newest book. (Can’t wait to read it.) Today, she posted this:
I don’t think I’ve every really loved before because I’ve been shaping things. Maybe love is just the opposite of control. Because love implies trust. We only control things or people we don’t fully trust.”
About an hour later, I saw an illustration that spoke to exactly this same sentiment; see below. Art is by Joanne/@wonder_do
This has been a stressful month, and I have wrestled to maintain control over all the balls I’m juggling. Even minor things, like taking a photo of my artful mess, have been interrupted (that’s my cat seeking attention at the top of this post). The phrase “like herding kittens” comes to mind, both metaphically and semi-literally.
But back to the point — is there some grace in letting go, either in life or in love?
Maybe there’s some element of control in agreeing to give in to what will be — in saying, “Yes, I will do what I can and surrender the rest.” Either way, if holding on to that power, however small, isn’t working.. then there’s no harm in trying something else.