The concept of “firsts” became something of a running joke/topic of conversation over the weekend.
At various points in my life, it has been suggested — usually in jest, though not always — that I have lived something of a sheltered existence these last 27 years or so. Perhaps so. I’ve never believed that was necessarily a bad thing, especially since I’ve known people over the years who have been both willing to educate my ignorance AND who have seemed to take particular pleasure in observing my newbie enthusiasm for something they know well (and presumably enjoy).
My weekend was unusually full of these sorts of firsts. For example, I can’t remember ever in my life having closed a bar — but Saturday night, I was still at a coffeehouse/bar in downtown Dallas when they took away all glasses left on tables. At said establishment, I downed an amaretto sour in record time (which is to say, in less than hour).
Not all firsts are that kind of fun; e.g., not being able to find a SINGLE parking spot inside the gates at my apartment complex for the first time was hardly my idea of excitement (even if it *was* in the wee small hours).
Many firsts can be fun, though, if only for the experience and the knowledge gained. Next month, I have a weeklong trip to Hawaii that will undoubtedly be chock full of firsts as well: my first trip to the Islands, first time off the mainland in 11 years, first time to see my aunt & uncle on my own, first chance to see really big waves, first opportunity to understand what has compelled my parents to buy a house on Hawaii (not complaining), as well as my first opportunity to try activities outside my usual purview, like snorkeling, scuba diving and parasailing.
When I think about it, this notion of firsts is really all about embracing change. I won’t insult you all by trying to suggest change is something I’ve always been fond of or good at dealing with; truth be told, I’ve long been a creature of habit and rather fond of my predictable little life. One of the coolest side effects of the big changes happening in my life (which began with and continue to be inspired by my ongoing weight-loss efforts) is that my fear of change has quickly disappeared. The more I step outside what I’d have once called my comfort zone, the more I realize how much fun I have when I do it. The things I’ve had the courage and willingness to try for the first time these last few days/weeks/months have literally shifted my perspective on the world and especially on myself.
Before this blog post (which was supposed to be brief, I swear!) becomes uncontrollably reflective/self-indulgent, I’ll just stop on this note: I’ve never been happier in my life than I am right now. Many of you reading this blog have been instrumental in me finding this incredible happiness, and I just hope that you’re having as much fun as I am.