Into the Wild Rumpus!

And we’re off! On the first day with the grandkids, I played indoor soccer with Malik, H-O-R-S-E- basketball (until it started raining—we’re tied at H-O), 6 games of the King’s Corner card game (3-3). I went to Zadie’s Volleyball game (not so happy as the team lost the two games after being well-ahead in the first and Zadie hardly played), went shopping with her for groceries, bought her a Strawberry Acai drink and some socks and talked a bit of Spanish with her in the car. Soon off to more shopping for Zadie’s Halloween costume (bless her-heart— still in the trick-or-treat game at almost 14-years-old), a trip to Powell’s Bookstore and a taco dinner out. 

 

Here’s the happy truth. In both Zadie and Malik’s presence, in different ways, I find myself smiling for no reason. I just love being in their presence. Having just come from the Men’s Group retreat, hanging out with these people who have been in the group for 35 years— and many who I knew for an additional 15 years! — I appreciate the longevity of our shared life and shared stories. But truth be told, the chemical connection with the group as a whole is less than effortless. No one’s fault, but I seem to almost always feel that I operate on a different vibrational level. Not superior nor inferior, just different. Like notes in a chord that make a decent harmony, but not one the sings out in great beauty. It’s just the way it is between human beings and nothing to do about it—except make sure to hang out with others who instantly sing together in accord with your way of being. Luckily, I have enough people who share that music with me. And that includes Zadie and Malik. 

 

 

So from the “war zone” into the wild rumpus of 10-year-old and 14-year-old energy and happy to be here. For six more days! I know the tumult and hullabaloo will sometimes feel too much for my old-guy’s nervous system and luckily, I have a room to retreat to. But mostly, it touches my forever child and I’m ready to play! Here we go!