Upside-down School Buses
13 March, 2015
What's your goal in life?
What do you want to achieve?
Where do you want life to take you?
As a 22-year-old, I don't have any set plans. I don't feel I need to make a certain amount of money or live in a certain type of house or in a specific location. I'm not too picky about where my future will take me; I'm sure I'll make the most of whatever happens. One thing I do aspire of, however, is to live care-free and joyfully. I want to be creative and try new things and open my mind to new ideas. I want my life to be a constant adventure, learning as much as I can about this world, others, and myself.
This morning, I met a group of people that were living out those attributes. They were curious, excited, and open-minded. They laughed, they asked questions, and they enjoyed themselves. Where did I find such people, you ask? Red Apple Elementary School, believe it or not! I was asked to lead a class to share about my work experience at a graphic design firm. One of the facets of my job includes handling the Racine city bus advertising. So, to make things fun, I had all the kids design a city bus advertisement for Red Apple school! I gave them markers, a blank sheet of paper, and fifteen minutes.
As I've grown older, I've found it more difficult to think outside the box. I tend to get stuck in my ways, not veering far from the beaten path I've created for myself. I like things done my way by my rules in my timing. This morning, I learned to see things through the eyes of a 7-year-old. "Can I draw spiderman on my advertisement?" one little boy asked. Totally! I responded. "Can I draw a picture of me walking my dog?" Why not! "Can I draw an upside down school bus?" Go for it, little guy! These kids used their wild imaginations, drawing whatever they darn well pleased.
As hard as it can be sometimes, seeing life through the eyes of a child, as elementary as it may sound, is key to happiness. Even Jesus explained this simple truth: "Leave the children alone, and don't try to keep them from coming to Me, because the kingdom of Heaven is made up of people like this." Joy is the serious business of Heaven, and He wants us to begin practicing now!
Try something new. Take a walk and look closely at your neighbors flowers. Draw a picture of your dream house. Buy a sushi kit and whip up some California rolls. Work out to classical music. Rollerblade, cliff jump, bodysurf... buy a scooter, wear bunny slippers, jump in a puddle, skinny dip at midnight (okay, too far Paige).
But, in all sincerity, this life is both incredibly short and far too serious. Laugh harder, hug tighter, and love with your whole heart. Don't be afraid to break the rules a little bit. Besides, with an eternity in Heaven to look forward to, we have all the reason in the world to be joyful.
My golden days. ^
