Using My Inside Voice

I know it's my personality type. I am too intense. I care too much. And so, from time to time, I become overwhelmed by the relentless nature of life.

It was time for drastic action. So, yesterday I took myself out for lunch so I could have a chat. (Not out loud.)

The weather was gorgeous, with a high temp in the 70's, sunny and nice. Not very fall-like at all. No complaints here. I decided to take me to Swenson's, a local drive-in that has waitstaff running from car to car taking orders and delivering the goods.

As I waited for my Galley Boy and chocolate malt, I broached the topic at hand. The conversation went something like this:

I: The only one who can make you happy is you. Happiness comes from within. You need to plant your own garden, cultivate your peace. No one can do that for you.

Me: What are you now, Our Lady of the Platitudes? Don't you think I know all that?

I: Of course you do, but look at you. You're a mess. I just thought you needed to be reminded. Look around. It's a beautiful day. You're sitting in your car, breathing in warm sunshiny air, anticipating a comfort food lunch. You've got to slow down. You move too fast.

Me: I've got to make the morning last? Thanks, Paul Simon.

I: I'm thinking it's pretty hopeless here. Do you even have an "off" switch?

Me: I don't think so. I'll let you know after my first heart attack.

I: What if you just downshift? Do you think you could do that?

Running man attached a tray of food to my window. I took my shake from him so it wouldn't spill, and inhaled the fragrance of a fresh-off-the-grill cheeseburger with stuff on it that would not make my waistline happy.

Me: I think I can eat right now. One bite at a time. Small bites.

So, I did. And watched the ants scurry around me. The guy in the next car was getting shirty that they couldn't find his food, until he remembered he'd given them his first name for the order, not his last name.

A tray was dropped. A lot of people were served. And the daily drama moved along, while I watched.

And just like that, I began to relax and enjoy my lunch.

I: Better?

Me: Yep, this was a good idea, thanks. We should do this more often.

I: Well, duh. You gonna be okay?

Me: I think so. Let's roll. We just gotta take this one day at a time.

I: Whose the platitude-master now?

Me: Shut up.

I: I didn't say a word.