Life on the Sunshine Coast of BC is never without its travel adventures, sometimes big, sometimes small.
Just like so many other places in the world, one of the more notable obsessions is that of transportation. Cities have their gridlock traffic jams to worry about. Others gripe about the potholes and general maintenance of roads. Some, like Singapore, encourage efficient use of mass rapid transportation. |
The thing about it is, when gale force winds blow, the ferries don't go. Period. Islanders know this. It's part of the deal about exchanging the bustle of city life for the tranquillity of a more rustic life. Sometimes you're going to wait for hours. That's why you always have plan B with you - food, water, board games, books, crossword puzzles, and a full tank of gas for the car.
Blame me--you know you want to
Blaming others seems to be a popular thing to do, especially when things aren't going your way. Psychiatrists refer to it as an entitlement mindset. The weather doesn't actually listen to your snarling. You can’t even pin it on the BC ferry corporation, because it would be unlikely to respond. So it's much easier to pick on the grandmother who offers you unconditional love, and who will be satisfyingly upset by your peeve. Blaming isn’t successful unless there's a human with feelings who you know will accept becoming part of your anger.
Cluttering with small things
Her technique was simple. If anyone in the family blamed someone and tried to get her to take sides she’d just say,”Hmmm...well, I’m too busy to micromanage my life, but if you have something to say about (whatever) I suggest you take it up with them. I know you'll solve it.”
Then she’d move on to more productive things.
Another beautiful day
The moral of the story? Find beauty in each day because it is a gift. That's why it's called the present.
And never blame a grandmother. Your misdeeds will be noted in the world wide web of grandmother networking. It’s embarrassing, to have yourself discussed by them. See, they laugh a lot with each other, and they talk a lot too! They’re learning to talk out their troubles and absorb new skills from each other. No more “just suck it up, Grandma”
Life is short. They just don’t have time to micromanage.