Sometimes

Life rarely goes the way we think it ought to go. Unexpected bumps, bruises, smiles and surprises could make up a single day. Today I realized that when that happens you must embrace it. It's a chance to learn, grow and discover. If reality is denied for too long the moments can seem produced and far from true. And accepting this turbulent reality means steping out of yourself and seeing that your actions and reactions affect those around you, even when you think they are not watching.
This summer I am blessed to have two jobs and one of them being a day camp counselor. Today was my first day. My plan to wake up at 6:30 am failed miserably as I ran out the door 20 minutes later than I had planned to leave. The weekend past had been an emotional one to say the least and had left me heart exhausted. My preocupied mind prompted me to miss my exit and find my way back amidst the morning rush of autos. It was at this point that I broke. Tear after tear streamed my face as I was overwhelmed with the reality that I may be late for my first day of work and would disappoint my co-workers and the children. I called out to Him for joy. I felt it missing in my life and was not sure where it had all gone. I miraculously made it to work on time, two minutes to spare. Before walking in I said a prayer of thanks and asked again for a joy, so that I could be there for the children.
Just like life, He doesn't tend to answer in an expected way. As I walked into the room of children I slapped on a grin and prepared myself for the day ahead. Gradually my spirits lifted as the pains of the days melted and the brightness of the children's smiles and laughter healed my soul. In their happiness, frustration, insecuirity and contentment I felt for them and comforted or encouraged when I could. I had forgotten how wonderful it feels to receive a hug from a child. They are all so beautiful for their differences. For their innocence. Oh how I desire to return to my youth. Where a single day did not seem to last an eternity. Where adults were people whom I could trust. How I wish their innocence could brush upon me just as their joy did.

The Magic Gas Station

A night in L.A. started with a question. What should I wear? I was heading out to a gig by a band that I had never heard of. I didn't know the scene. Black tank, jeans and leopard print heels were the verdict. Black always seems to work. Saturday night, Echo Park was the destination. I didn't know what to expect. The freeways were pleasant enough as my bestie Ace and I filled up the drive with our stories from the year past. We arrived in a neighborhood reminiscent of the burbs of San Fran and the steep streets of Valparaiso, Chile. Chango cafe, the Magic Gas station and lack of parking were the highlights of our search for food. We settled for a pizza place that named their pizza styles after famous comedians and singers. The restaurant was packed with couples, families and old time friends chatting away in various languages. After we enjoyed our delish slices we headed to a nearby vinyl record store and browsed the selection before heading into the venue. Upon entering I noticed the intimate setting and strong air conditioning. I assumed it would be getting pretty crazy in there, still not sure what the crowd would be like, but I was open-minded and anxious to hear the opening band. Static was a unexpected combination. A very impressive female drummer with great beats, fast, driving, clean. The male and female vocal talents had interesting voices. Passionate but far from harmonious. I enjoyed the beats but soon headed outside to a grouping of slanted tables that made it awkward to sit. I couldn't imagine how someone even a little bit buzzed would be able to survive them. The next act was up soon enough and we wandered back in. Sounds reminiscent of the Doors, Hendrix and Led were being made. The bassist looked like Hyde from "That 70's Show". The lead singer was amusing with his off-color side comments and lyrics. But the real show started when King Khan took the stage. The stage was filled with an unlikely pairing of band mates. The lead singer resembled James Brown, who he was striving to emulate.