Your Passenger Seat

A couple of weeks ago I was going for an aimless drive (because gas is now cheap and I can afford that). I was thinking, because what else do you do during drives?!? I looked at my passenger seat and had an epiphany; Who have I allowedto sit there? Key word, allowed, I will get back to that later. I began thinking back on anyone and everyone (and anything...because one time I had to transport a torah from our temple). Why the rabbis trusted me, I will never know, but the torah made it safely to its' destination. Anyway, I began reflecting on who may have sat there. I have had friends, family, almost famous comedians, strangers, people I never thought I'd be friends with, my elders, not really anyone much younger (because airbag rules...safety first!!), homeless people, and obviously my dogs. People from all over, with different stories. Part of me wants to create a talk show in the car and call it, The Roads We Travel, and have people share their stories. However, I would need gas to go down to 25 cents per gallon again for that to happen...or become an Uber driver! I've heard some funny stories from those brave souls. Back to who has sat there. THIS IS A METAPHOR PEOPLE!!! A metaphor for life (Call me Gandhi). The people I allow in my life are very similar to those I allow in the passenger seat of my car. They come from all walks of life, I try to greet them with a smile, and hear a bit about them. First, my souls sisters. I have very few of them, but these are my girls who get me, accept me, and encourage me. You each know who you are, and I love you so so much. I am not always the best with words, in person, but at night when my mind and heart speak to me, it's all the best. Thank you! I have some very close, supportive people in my life, who I would never let go of. I know their stories, they know mine. A little distance at times? Yes, because I believe that is a part of growing. Taking time for yourself, when you need it, on your time, and no one else's. You have to be aware of other's and the time they give to you, but sometimes you have to get away. I'll come back around when I am ready. I have a lot of acquaintances in my life. Those who I am friendly to, know a little bit about, but don't really see outside of certain classes, activities, or work. I still cherish the time I get with you, never doubt that. I am a firm believer that everyone that I come across helps me in one way or another. Some of these people, I wish I were closer with, but maybe there is a reason we only see people so often. The strangers. This is always an interesting one. Some people I just vibe with. For example I'll be at the grocery store, compliment someone on their shoes, and all of a sudden I'll know the toothpaste they use, and their favorite snack. It really is cool, and I guess sort of a talent of mine. As I have gotten older I find myself curious about everyone, and their stories. So sometimes I ask. The opposite are the strangers that I am not quite sure how to feel about. The ones that I try to be friendly with, but I don't want to be too friendly with, because I'm not looking for "that kind of person" to be around more then that one time. In all of these scenarios there is a level of power that I have to choose who I stay around, and how friendly I want to be. I can choose to surround myself with those who will hear me out and lift me up when I need it most. I can choose who to "kick to the curb." (I've never actually thrown someone out of my car, if it ever gets that bad, I should reevaluate my life.) I can also choose how much of an impact I allow people to have on my life. There are some people who I can not just get rid of, but I also don't have to allow some of their toxins to pollute my life (OMG that was so poetic haha). But really it all comes down to how we chose to react to situations that arise. May you be given the strength to overcome some of your biggest obstacles, and stand up for whatever you believe in. May you also be brave enough to let anyone and everyone sit in your passenger seat, because people teach us so many things. Help when you can, ask for help when you need it. Remember to stay chill, happy, humble, and kind!! Thanks for reading, look forward to more soon! ​-xoxo Erin