leyzays
Illustration: A paper map with a planned route drawn on it, folded and set down on a rock beside a beautiful unexpected waterfall in a lush forest.

Letting go

Let go of the life you planned.

Most of us had a plan. Married by this age. That career by that year. A certain kind of house, a certain kind of life.

Then life happened. Some plans broke. Some dreams changed. Some doors never opened.

It's okay to grieve the life you planned. But don't let it blind you to the life you actually have — which may have waterfalls you'd never have found on the old map.

Fold up the old plan. Look around. You might be somewhere beautiful.