Happiness is mindful meandering and not mindless map marking
It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end - Ursula K. Le Guin
I like cows so much so I coined the abbreviation C.O.W.S. to denote ‘Current Ongoing Work & Scope’ for use in our regular team plannings. When I learnt of a Swedish event called Kosläpp, literally translated as "cow release”, it sounded like something I could not miss. Motivated by a fun day out of the city I started to have second thoughts as getting there was a challenging transit requiring 2 changes of bus and trains. I was lucky because a generous colleague lent me his Swedish bicycle and from Google maps it looks like a manageable travel time of 55 minutes. I set out on May the 4th under clear blue skies and excellent cycling weather, trusting the ‘force’ to guide me. It took me 1 hour 40 minutes.
Amidst the lush landscapes and babbling streams, I peddled through unfamiliar paths, initially focused on my final destination. The crisp spring air filled my lungs as I navigated winding roads lined with blossoming trees. Each turn revealed a new vista—a patchwork of vibrant green fields stretching towards the horizon, dotted with colourful wildflowers nodding in the breeze.
However, I soon realised the importance of being fully present. Taking in the vibrant hues of spring, the laughter of fellow adventurers, and the warmth of the sun on my skin became my anchors in the here and now. The simple act of cycling through this picturesque countryside became a form of meditation—a chance to escape the hurried pace of daily life and immerse myself in the beauty of the moment.
As the kilometres melted away beneath my tires, I encountered unexpected challenges along the way. Signs were sometimes misleading, and my sense of direction was tested more than once. Despite these obstacles, I embraced each detour as an opportunity for exploration. On one particularly enchanting stretch, I stumbled upon a hidden trail flanked by towering trees, their branches forming a natural canopy overhead. The sound of a gentle stream accompanied me like a faithful companion, soothing my spirit with its rhythmic melody.
Life often throws unexpected challenges our way—detours, delays, and disappointments that threaten to derail our plans. Arriving late to the farm event, I felt a pang of disappointment as the crowds had already gathered taking the best locations to best witness the cows' release . Yet, as I surveyed the scene, I couldn't help but marvel at the joyous spectacle unfolding before me.
Ballerina Bovines
The cows, after months of confinement in the barn during the cold winter months, were now bouncing with unrestrained joy. Their hooves kicked up tufts of newly sprouted grass as they frolicked in the open pasture, basking in the warmth of the spring sun. Witnessing their exuberance was a poignant reminder that even simple creatures find boundless joy by fully embracing the present moment.
Amidst the flurry of activity, I reframed my initial disappointment as an opportunity for resilience. Rather than dwelling on missed opportunities, I shifted my focus to the journey itself—the triumph of navigating unfamiliar terrain, the camaraderie of fellow human beings sharing a journey, and the resilience of my spirit in the face of unexpected obstacles.
Reflecting on my day's adventures, a profound sense of gratitude enveloped me. Gratitude for the borrowed bicycle that carried me through the countryside, despite my aching muscles. Gratitude for the picturesque landscapes that unfolded before me, offering solace and serenity. Gratitude for the moments of connection with nature and fellow travelers, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences.
When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves - Victor Frankl
While my initial goal was to witness the cows' release, the true essence of the day revealed itself in unexpected moments of joy and connection. This shift in perspective resonates with Viktor Frankl's existential philosophy—the idea that life's meaning is found not in the pursuit of pleasure or power but in embracing challenges and finding purpose amidst adversity.
Meandrousity
In the bustling tapestry of our daily lives, we often find ourselves fixated on reaching destinations—goals, achievements, and milestones that promise fulfilment and happiness. Yet, as I recently discovered on this meandering bicycle ride to a farm, true joy resides not solely in reaching these endpoints but in the journey itself.
My farm adventure served as a poignant reminder of the principles underlying a fulfilling life. Happiness is indeed a meandering path, enriched by mindful presence, resilience in adversity, and a heart filled with gratitude.
By embracing life's journey—its twists, turns, and unexpected detours—we open ourselves to a deeper sense of fulfilment and well-being. Let us cherish each moment, for it is in the journey itself that we uncover the true essence of happiness.
As we navigate the roads of life, may we remember that joy is not merely a destination to be reached but a state of being cultivated along the way—a testament to the profound wisdom offered by our experiences in our quest for a meaningful and fulfilling existence.