In need of balance

     Keeping the proper balance in life is simple in theory. Plan enough work time and play time. Eat a balanced diet with fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, whole grains and adequate dairy. Avoid unnecessary stress. Let go of the little things and the things out of our control.
     That's all well and good if everyone in our life was on the same page. If we all communicated the same, had the same priorities and wanted as much for others as we want for ourselves, we wouldn't risk upsetting someone else through misunderstanding or disappointment.  We would know and respect the limits, ours and others.  We would work together and play together like a well-oiled machine.
    Imagine your boss coming to you and saying, 'You've been working so hard lately, slow down a little and take some time for you.'  Or your kids saying, 'I'm on summer break so I'll take over the house cleaning and preparing meals'.  How about your parents saying, 'You've been so responsible and worked so hard all school year, here's some money to do with what you wish.'  It's almost unimaginable for most of us, though I'm sure somewhere, in a few rare situations, some version of these statements/actions are being said and people are caring for those that surround them.
     My deepest desire is to have a measurable impact in the lives of others that push them and their individual worlds in this direction.  I'm older now and have to remind myself that it's never too late to effect change in the world, but the most difficult part is deciding what that change looks like. What can I do to make my corner of the world better?  I should be in a 'big damn hurry' because I'm not getting any younger.  If I make a point of being the best person I can, and try to make up for the mistakes I make along the way, then if something more profound and meaningful doesn't become apparent, perhaps it's the smaller steps for which I'm to be responsible. I'm okay with that.