Friday, December 11, 2009

Tarry a While

I am a horrid Travel Companion. I frustrate and fluster my partners. While they are eager to hurry and see more and more of whatever there is to see, I am compelled to tarry. It is my way. My right-brain dominated senses cannot take in the essence or nature of a setting or sight in fleeting haste. I must dwell in that set of stimuli in order to process it all. Then, and only then, am I able to appreciate, ingest, and celebrate what is offered.

It is so, for me, with every element and aspect of life. I do not recall having ever been totally sated with any indulgence in experiential foreplay. I have an unquenchable desire for the prolonging of every exchange of sensory awakenings. The climax of an experience spells an end to the magic of the arousal. And, be it physical. Intellectual, or ideological, I thrill in the adventure of every aspect of each unique moment.

So, please save yourself the exasperation of my company if you are inclined to hasten toward something beyond the ‘right now.’ I will be lingering with, and savouring, what is. I will be slowly inhaling the aromas and sampling the textures of the smallest and simplest of each note and tone constituting the symphony of this moment.

I do invite You, Dear One, to consider abiding (for just a wee little bit) with me. Know the joys of dwelling in this singular Present, and Place. Grant your Self, sweet repose, in a giddy bit of lollygagging.


[a loving smile]






IMAGE
: Through the generous courtesy of Jon Sullivan, PDPhoto.org

12 comments:

Suldog said...

My trips to your place, here, always end with me having gained something. Usually, it's what I got today; a bit of wisdom, making me slow down and appreciate something that I was hurrying past. You bless my life, John-Michael, and I thank you.

(And the word verification, which you can take to the bank regarding this blog, is UNHYPE.)

John-Michael said...

How deliciously dear You, my Precious SulDog Friend, are to me! When (as today) my Spirit is sagging a bit ... there You are Jim ... lifting me up on wings of tenderly caring camaraderie. I am so very grateful for You.

Lovingly ...

lime said...

ah, but i like to linger too when i am someplace new. i've often taken the kids to a museum or such and thought, "i must come back when the kids aren't with me so i can take my time."

Anonymous said...

WOW JM you make the mind wonder a bit with this one (giggling) Sorry if I'm blushing, I can't help it.

Kissing of the Frogs said...

I am one of those that must hurry to see all that I can, but I make a mental note and then come back to it to take it in and appreciate it...I love your way with words...just love it!
Hugs,
Rose

John-Michael said...

P;ease forgive, My Dear Lime, my tardiness in responding. As you know, I am having my "Seasonal Struggles" with the emotions. Though I have responded to your thoughts in the quiet of my funky mind ... each time, that I start to write, I have to shut down again. One might think that a man would (at some point in life) reach the place where he is free of emotional entanglements. It seems that this will never be my course.

I know that you revisit those places that you cherish and long to tarry in. I have unbounded faith that Life will give you those gifts. Until then, store the thoughts and memories in the treasury of your lovely Spirit.

Lovingly ...

John-Michael said...

All that Life offers is taken with the singular and total inclusion of all of Me, Dearest Anonymous Friend. I have never had an appetite for compartmentalization of my feelings or emotions. though it has sometimes brought moments of conflict or discomfort, I address every aspect of life with the totality of who I am. (Yes! I know that the sensual and passionate can be a bit disquieting in the bright sunlight of the Everyday. But I do like living that way!)
[loving smile]

John-Michael said...

Oh, My Darling Rose! How glorious to hear the sweet chords of your Voice! Your lovely Presence encourages and brightens my Soul. Thank you, Sweetheart, for your caring and thoughtful visit.

I love You ...

Anonymous said...

JM this time of year is very difficult for many of us emotionally. I, like you struggle also. Loneliness has nothing to do with how many people may be around or how festive they may be. It definitely comes from within & putting on a smile may fool others but we still know. I wish you a hasty return to your old self.

rebecca said...

It's been awhile since I've come visit and after reading this I wonder why I've stayed away for so long. Your words are gems that gifts us with a sense of serenity and wonder.

I, like you, am a slow type of gal. That is why I never ever travelled with my siblings (who each year like to take a cruise with their families all together). They are of the hurried sort with day-filled itinerary in hand. I hate it. I would surely drive them as insane as they would me. Each year I respectfully decline and save us all the unfortunate experience of killing each other. Thankfully - thankfully! - my beloved is a slow type of man as well. We love to go on long leisurely walks and we love to take our time taking in the essence of things. It is the only way to truly live in the moment. This hurried business is not for me.

John-Michael said...

Ah yes, Dear Anonymous Friend! 'Tis, indeed, a struggle.

I lovingly send my Heart's genuine Care and gentle Encouragement to your precious Soul.

Lovingly ...

John-Michael said...

OH my! How wonderful to hear from You again my Darling Rebecca! Your words always caress my Spirit with such gentle breaths of thoughtful and meaning-filled refreshment.

Your loving reference to your "Beloved" brought to mind one of my very favorite songs ... Slow Hand .

Enjoy!! [big smile]

With fond appreciation ...

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