I always trust the Universe to guide me. Sometimes, things happen, and I don't realize the reason until afterward.
My plans for Christmas Day were to go to breakfast with my neighbor, per his invitation. Then I would drive north to the Loveland/Fort Collins area to visit my parents. I planned to visit them while avoiding the rest of the family members, who are... critical. My parents enjoy spending time with my brothers and their families, surrounded by lots of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and their family's... um... "affluence".
When I got up, I twisted my back wrong, and that put me in a world of pain. I tried doing my stretches and soaking in a hot bath, but it was not going to ease up. I made some calls to let people know that I would not be going anywhere. I took a pain pill, which is rare, but I don't drive anywhere when I do.
My neighbor came over and brought me an apple-blueberry pastry he had made, and two movies for me to watch for something restful to do. He texted me several times during the day to check on me and make sure I was doing ok.
Last night, I talked to my parents, thanked them for the Christmas card, and gave them an update on what I have been doing. They never said "we missed you" or "we would like to see you" or even hinted at what they did to celebrate Christmas. Sometimes, it is what is not said that speaks the loudest.
At first, I thought the back pain was going to make my day miserable. Instead, I got plenty of rest, watched movies, spent time in meditation, and had a good day. It prevented me from driving for six hours (round-trip) to spend time with people who don't appreciate me. I am grateful for that. Life is too short to spend it with negative people.
Today, the back pain has eased, and I have more rocks to wash.
Thanks to all for the holiday wishes, and I hope you had a good day too.
😁
