Shifting Wind

We’ve been blessed with an unseasonable spell of warm weather over the past week. I even ventured into the woods without my jacket. Our Sunday trip to Santa Barbara was a treat, with temperatures reaching the upper 70s. The ocean sparkled, and the Channel Islands looked remarkably close. Strolling along the cliffs and beaches reignited memories of my routine bike rides to the beach, making me realize how much I miss the the ocean.

Life took an unexpected turn almost four years ago when our landlord informed us that she intended to move into the unit we were occupying. Amidst the process of packing and house hunting, the world abruptly shut down — a narrative familiar to many.

Now, four years into our full-time residence in this beautiful mountain community, we sense the winds of change once again. While I’m uncertain about the direction these winds may take us, it doesn’t necessarily mean we’ll relocate. Embracing the uncertainty of life and allowing things to unfold organically can be a bit unsettling, especially when we crave some certainty about our future. I find myself on the lookout for signs, seeking indications of what lies ahead, although it doesn’t negate the importance of planning. Life events often unfold beyond our control, and this awareness adds a layer of complexity to the journey.

Modern meteorology offers precise weather predictions, enabling us to plan our activities accordingly. Following the recent warm days, a storm is forecasted for the upcoming weekend. Smartphone weather apps provide insights into the expected start time of the rain and anticipated precipitation amounts. While not infallible, these predictions are a valuable tool for planning.

In an ideal scenario, I sometimes yearn for the ability to forecast my life with the precision of a weather forecast. Although I delve into astrology and other oracles, I acknowledge my agency in making choices and decisions. Navigating through life, I aspire to be nimble and graceful in adapting to the shifting winds, maintaining curiosity about how my journey might unfold beyond my wildest imagination.