unbidden abandon

Something I recently realized was the singular lack of real fun in my life. I mean the real kind of fun -- not the so-called fun activities which are really more of an obligation than a reckless abandon of all things boring and socially acceptable. I mean the kind of fun that we all used to have when we ran through the sprinklers: the kind that from the outside makes no sense at all, but brings an unbidden smile to anyone who catches a glimpse.

The other week I was out walking on one cool clear night. The stars were bright and inviting of adoration. I was feeling slightly spontaneous already (admittedly, I had some sugar pumping through my bloodstream). As we crossed the street I turned to Josh as if to say "watch this." I stopped, turned to face the oncoming car which was a fair distance away, opened my mouth, bent my knees, threw down my fists and yelled in its direction. It felt glorious! Oh the freedom of letting go of all need to "be aware" of what others think. I did not scream a bloodcurdling scream so as to frighten nearby residents. Nor did I put myself or anyone else in any danger. Josh thought it was hilarious. It was the beginning of a very good night.

I was recently reminded of another silly story, in which my sister Meghan and I decided it appropriate (or at least a good idea) to spend one whole day speaking only in song. Conveniently, we had a job painting together and the only other person with whom it was necessary that we conversed was the manager who brought us our paint, a good friend and amused by our silliness. It was, however, quite freeing to speak to complete strangers as if you were a character in an opera.

I need more of this kind of thing in my life, week, day. You should all try this too. It'll be a group project. Really let go and give it a shot. Though not always easy to bring forth, the benefits are beyond comprehension. You can almost feel being released from the restrictive sinews of social acceptedness. Exciting, isn't it? If you have adventures of recklesness to tell, please, do share.

(The picture above is not of Meghan, but our younger sister Naomi. As you can see this capacity for abandon runs in our family. I love it.)