Wait Your Turn And It Will Come
I have a precious friend who often gripes about his life whenever he’s played golf with his friends. His friends are all retired and “enjoying their freedom” whereas he is still “saddled with a job.”
His friends, on the other hand, are feeling purposeless in their retirement. They envy my friend because he’s still on top of his game at work and admired by his business colleagues.
This is a classic case of the grass being greener on the other side. Most people experience such envy no matter how young, how old, how financially stable and successful, or how admired they are by their friends and family. Someone else always looks like they have it better.
Envy is like a traffic signal. If it’s red, it’s probably telling us to hold our horses and feel grateful that no one’s pushing us out into the street. It means we’re exactly in the place we’re supposed to be.
If it’s flashing “don’t walk,” and you’re thinking you can make it across the boulevard safely enough, maybe it’s time to take a chance on going for the dream you long for. But you’ll have to accept the risk.
When the light is green, it’s telling you to go. Now’s your chance to cross to that side of the street where the grass is greener and all your heartfelt dreams await.
The light always, at some point, turns green. My wish is for everyone to remember this truth—and cultivate the art of being patient while you await your turn. It will come when the time is divine. And as you wait, be kind and thoughtful with others by keeping the chip of envy off your shoulder.
Tin Cup
Your friend sounds like a person that is close to the curb and waiting to cross the street to grab the flowers before they wilt away in the window of the flower shop. But to the untrained eye those particular flowers are made of fine Japanese silk to look real and will last for a very long time. The time he waits with constant observation gives him more insight on the many uses of those flowers and when to give them to that special person or persons in need of them. When that time comes everyone will be on track and what would be ordinary will now be extraordinary.
I am sure your friend will love your message.
That is my take anyway.
Evangel
Very true. Appearances are always deceptive. If we envy anyone, we should walk a mile in their shoes, and then decide if we still envy them. Chances are slim we will.
Thanks for your insightful comment!
Present Valley
This is a beautiful description of the human condition...right! We can get caught up in envy over so many things.
Most recently the grass definitely looked greener on the other side of where I was.
After 8 weeks of being unable to walk without pain, a boot or ankle brace due to a broken ankle I struggled with envy. I was envious of any able bodied person walking by. Being a daily walker, my current situation was very difficult to accept. For proper healing I needed to be holding at the red light. I was exactly where I needed to be.
Forgot a flashing light...I couldn't hobble fast enough to get across the street!
I am acutely aware of how I had to consciously invite patience and acceptance into my mind and heart every day. This experience deepened my compassion for those who are suffering regardless if it is self imposed or due to something outside of their control.
And now, I have the green light. I'm building up my walking endurance and every step is taken with gratitude. At the same time I'm paying close attention to any hint of envy because I am limited to only one mile right now. I know I'll be back up to 4 miles when the time is right. Meanwhile I'm taking great pleasure in hearing birds, seeing butterflies and simply saying "good morning" to the people I pass on my morning walk.
Evangel
I'm happy to hear that the green light is flashing for you again. One mile is great, and little by little with caution you'll be back up to 4 in no time--knowing you.
Thanks for sharing your unique but difficult situation through the lens of envy and the analogy of a stop light. ❤️
Slipstream
Even though the grass looks greener, upon close inspection, there are plenty of weeds. Nothing is perfect. Thanks for your wish; a very good reminder to appreciate your own yard.
Evangel
Without realizing it, people often trip over the envy they feel for days gone by. That's why appreciating the present and finding ways to love it is key to a more successful "greener" life.
Slipstream
So true!