For my Birthday, the Gift of Reality

Ever argue with reality? As in: “This shouldn’t be happening!” or “You can’t do this to me!” I have—too often. Life has handed me experiences—each one a valuable lesson, an education in learning to embrace what is. Sometimes, I resist, even though I know that resistance often prolongs my suffering and stress. Last November, on a drive into San Francisco to celebrate my birthday, traffic became a game of stop-and-go near the exit to Berkeley. I drove far below the speed limit, maintained plenty of extra space between my car and the rear bumper of the car in front of me, and drove cautiously despite my lead foot reputation. I had all the time I needed——I was more than two hours ahead of schedule and expected to arrive early at the charming French restaurant where friends and I planned to dine. Suddenly, the car in front of me screeched to halt. I had plenty of room to stop safely and a wave of relief traveled through me until I looked into the rearview mirror and saw the driver behind me looking at his phone. Boom! His truck slammed into my car, pushing my car forward several feet into the vehicle in front of me. “NO!” I yelled as though the power of my word could reverse what just happened. Stunned by the impact, I sat motionless for a moment. Then I began laughing at myself. Why did I think my \”no\” was so powerful it could reverse reality? I flipped on my turn signal and began the lengthly process of crossing five lanes of commuter traffic traveling faster than the 65 mile an hour speed limit. To each person who allowed me into their lane, I sent a silent prayer of blessing. The car that rear-ended me and the car I rear-ended were still on the freeway. Parked at the side of the road, I called 9-1-1, keeping my eye on the other vehicles so I could accurately describe each one to the operator. Did I want to be in a car accident on my birthday? No. But it happened, so why argue with reality? I was shook up but uninjured and my car was driveable. And, although I was late to my own birthday dinner, I cherished the meal with friends along with the gift the universe delivered: An impactful reminder to embrace what is. ©Joey Garcia Joey Garcia coaches teens and adults who are ready for more freedom and joy in their lives. Interested in her coaching services, webinars or in having Joey speak at your conference or company? Send her an email.