Why can’t we remember that every time we innocently imagine we can turn a corner without running into the unexpected, we get knocked flat? It’s like swimming in the ocean . We seem to enjoy the water so much when it’s calm that we turn our backs to the oncoming surf, forgetting the unexpectedly rough wave that hits us from behind, upsetting our balance and washing us into the sand.
Each time we get knocked to the pavement or upended by a wave and rolled in the sand, we eventually pick ourselves up and get on with it. Only then are we rewarded by whatever previously undiscovered treasures occur beyond the unexpected obstacles.
Again and again, we recommit ourselves to thinking about exploring the future. We are certain that next time we will remember to expect the unexpected and to anticipate the surprises. But we never do.
Some insights seem too simple to learn in a single lifetime..