Yes, Virginia, You CAN Wait for Santa Claus
When I was a kid, waiting for Santa seemed an interminable space where day-to-day life was put on hold. “I can’t wait! I can’t wait!” became my daily (internal) mantra.
I’m not waiting for Santa this year but I’ve put myself in a similar tizzy waiting in other ways.
- One agent who has my full manuscript tweeted that she is going to read all submissions and reply to authors by the end of the year.
- Three other agents have had my manuscript for weeks/months and I’m still awaiting word on those.
- By the end of December, I’ll be notified whether I was accepted for a prestigious writing residency at Hedgebrook on Whidbey Island in 2011.
Living more in the present has been a lifelong struggle. When I put this much effort into waiting, I become a permanent resident of limbo. It’s not a good way to live. My stomach twists, I stress-eat, I obsess about things completely out of my control.
And if/when I don’t get what I’m waiting for, I’ll feel letdown – both because I didn’t get that agent/residency/big break, but also because I can’t get back these days that I’ve wasted not living presently, joyfully and gratefully.
Sounds like I’ve begun my New Year’s resolution list early.
Any resolutions emerging for you yet?
Can’t wait for Santa… how true. Once again this year, I was the one who found the PERFECT gifts for my beloved, only to dance around like a little kid and then BEG her to open them. Because I couldn’t wait. She tried to resist, but in the end, I “won”. Now there’s one little, lonely gift under what used to be a tree full of wrapped surprises. Hmmmm. The good news is, she’s able to use all of the winter clothing I got her right now.
New Year’s resolutions? Be more generous, be more patient, be more kind, be more understanding….
–Tim Birchard