Feet firmly push us back in the seat and we grip the chains with anticipation. As we kick off, the first breeze starts to hit our cheeks.
With each pump of our legs forward, we thrust out feet against the blue sky. Then, methodically, tuck them under, legs behind our seat. The process builds momentum.
Stronger and stronger we go until we are certain our swing could power us straight into the sky.
We are free in the moment of flying, that letting go of control and just embracing the sky. Unbound. Unencumbered. Our ears hum with the whistle of the air as we twist and turn.
Swinging allows us to just let go. To smile.
Embrace simple childhood pleasures
Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood–Fred Rogers
When is the last time you sat on a swing? They are not just for little kids, but big kids in grown-up physical bodies. Adults who have real-life stresses and responsibilities.
Swings are still free.
Find a park, pull over and walk to the playground. Ignore the voice that tells you that this is just silly. Indeed it is, that is the whole purpose!
Let go of cares and worries and allow the pure delight of simple childhood pleasures to temper the everyday. To restore the wonder of unplanned delights.
These are the gifts of an ordinary life, almost missed in our rush to do the urgent.
Freedom from the ordinary simply requires that we seek out the opportunities to find joy in surprising places.
