| You need to realize that my grandmother was a | | | | remember. You can't know if this invitation is one |
| lady. She'd been an executive secretary in her | | | | of many or the last one that may come your |
| working days, and there was a dignity about her | | | | way. Life is like that. |
| that somehow hadn't translated into subsequent | | | | I have a new bumper sticker that says, "Don't |
| generations. Genteel, she was. Prim. Proper even. | | | | Postpone Joy." I think this is what Alice Walker |
| That's why the budgie picture is such a delight. If | | | | had in mind when she wrote, in The Color Purple, |
| it is possible for my grandmother to relax enough | | | | "I think it [irritates] God when you walk by the |
| to tolerate a bird in her hair - and allow a | | | | color purple in a field somewhere and don't notice |
| photograph! -- then it is possible for anyone to let | | | | it" (Those of you who remember the book will |
| go, let down and play. She knew what could | | | | realize I've tidied up the verb somewhat, although |
| happen. She knew what birds do . . . and she yet, | | | | I admit the sentiment was more effective written |
| let it sit there, let this fragile little creature just be. | | | | her way!) |
| The approaching summer will bring opportunities, | | | | Joy, playfulness, doing your version of letting a |
| and if we're not careful we'll find ourselves too | | | | budgie sit on your head - these are our human |
| busy . . . too tired . . . too dignified . . . too | | | | way of saying "thank you" to the Universe for |
| preoccupied . . . to step outside the lives of our | | | | the gift of life - long life, short life, whatever |
| safe and comfortable everyday. We'll be too | | | | weeks and days and years remain. |
| worried about being careful . . . to concerned | | | | So, here's my summer wish for you: Let the |
| about acting our age . . . too busy thinking about | | | | budgie of happiness sit on your head. Recognize |
| tomorrow to pay attention today. | | | | there are consequences, but live with it. Let your |
| And yet: When something knocks on your door | | | | motto be, "Don't Postpone Joy." May room for |
| and asks, "Can [your name] come out to play?", | | | | happiness, make time for play. Every day. |