For the past ten days or so, I've been out in L.A. working as a consultant on a DVD production. I can remember leaving the frenetic pace of NYC excited to return to some nice sunny and DRY weather and reuniting with those I haven't seen in a very long time. Due to the production schedule, it looked as if I would have quite a bit of free time to really catch up with friends, take some classes and take care of myself in between work. I was really looking forward to that.
However, without getting into too much detail, let's just say that I've been faced with some situations which many would consider 'stressful'. Deadlines, extra responsibilities, money disputes, etc. With a little bit of drama thrown in for good measure.  This morning, in my first conversation of the week, my associate asked me "How are you?" in that voice that expects one to answer in a distraught, upset and exhausted tone. To my own surprise I replied, "Great!" And I seriously felt that way. I myself couldn't believe it. In spite of some disagreements, misunderstandings, extra work load, little pay, and drawn out phone conversations, I was still, really, truly not only fine, but happy. I did not allow work or it's twists and turns to alter my mood or the time I dedicated to my friends and myself. I enjoyed a weekend filled with fun dance classes, hot sweaty yoga classes (just how I like them!), long, meaningful conversations with good girlfriends, writing, creative meetings, nice dinners and plenty of sleep.  It was fabulous. So when asked how I was doing this morning, my fond memories of the weekend superseded any upsetting or unsettling work conversations that ensued. Which prompted my honest reply. I was blessed, truly. I filled my days with people, events and situations that mean the most to me. Although, because I hope to help others live healthier and happier lives themselves, I will always consider my work important, I no longer allow the day to day stresses to negatively affect MY health and happiness. I think, even as early as a year ago, this week would have caused me to be anxious, upset and sleepless. No longer. I have put myself and those I love first and am proud of myself for that. Life is too short.  I will not remember the eight counts I had to review or what was said in these little work disagreements. But I will remember the late night conversations with my girlfriends, making 'lists' and envisioning what we want our future to look like. I will remember dancing my ass off in class on Saturday morning. I will remember running into two very good girlfriends at the cafe Saturday afternoon. I will remember crying with my girlfriend on Saturday night over love lost and the pain of moving on.  I will remember that perfect spot I found in yoga class where my mat was centered just so the sunlight hit the top of the mat and shone warm on my face every time I began a sun salutation.  I will remember sharing dinner with my girlfriend who supports me and every decision I make. And those are the memories I choose to create. Because work is work. Those memories? They are life.