Ding Dong

Ding Dong ...

I woke up with a song in my head this morning. It is a reminder of my encounter with the town Drama Queen at the post office yesterday. It was bound to happen sooner or later.

It began late last spring when I ask permission to cross land that bordered the state park at Wide Hollow. I had an idea for a walking trail. A Walking trail to link the state park with Escalante. 

There was support from the town council and the Mayor for the same idea. The park ranger said money was available for developing the trail. Everyone I spoke with agreed it would be good for the community.

Many of the people here are long time residents. Their families helped settle the town. They have raised their children here and depend on each other for support. When there is a need, people gather and help. In the spring, volunteers meet by the old Escalante High School sign to help clean up main street by cleaning the flower beds and pulling the weeds. In the summer when the town overflows with visitors for the 24th of July celebration, they meet at the city park to help with the carnival and food. There are community plays where we can laugh and enjoy the neighborly spirit. It isn’t quite like Mayberry with Andy Taylor, but it is close. 

When I proposed the idea for a walking trail, I had a feeling that there was more to this trail, than just a trail. Opposition in life creates an opportunity for improvement and growth. The ability to forgive ourselves and others for wrongs in our past directly affects the present and future. This trail project has opened my eyes to the personal dramas that shape people and families and communities. It has shown me how events far back into the past can continue to plague and poison the present. 

When I meet opposition, I try to avoid a confrontation. My preferred method of resolution is to talk calmly and plainly to find an understanding and agreement for the problem. 

Yesterday that method failed. I was verbally attacked by our town Drama Queen for an offense that began many years ago. She has been carrying old dramas that have shaped her life and the life of others around her. The old timers here have learned to live with her and her dramas. I have not. The trail project is on hold. Unresolved issues from the past are haunting the present.

Something deep inside me was awakened at the post office yesterday when I was attacked.  I have been processing through the night to get a clear picture in my mind. I have faith in the human spirit to overcome and unite in harmony. Within each of us are the inner abilities to meet and overcome each of life’s challenges, no matter what form they may take. 

I have found three old friends again thanks to opposition. 

Welcome back Scarecrow.

Welcome back Tin Man. 

Welcome back Lion. 

Yesterday it was Courage and Heart combined with an inner awareness from my Higher Self that allowed me to face the Wicked Witch. She didn’t have her broom or her hat, but she stood there in front of the post office with all her drama. A scene right out of the Wizard of Oz.

I am grateful for these old friends. They have come to my rescue on other occasions. I can feel when they are near. It is comforting to know that within all of us are the solutions to the problems that confront us.

I met the Old Witch before. 

Another lifetime? 

This time she is the Drama Queen. 

Next time it may be another Vixen. How ever she chooses to appear, I will recognize her. 

We all play the villain and the hero at times to help each other recognize our own inner potential. Without polarity, there is only mediocracy.

I can thank the Drama Queen for giving me a reminder of who I am. She reintroduced me to some old friends who will keep me company as I journey along my road of life.

The river trail? I have faith in the ability of the community to join in unity. The words of the song still echo ...