These days, at more than twice that age, I often feel beaten down.
You know how it is - work, money, relationships, family, health, time, and sheer bloody Life. They gang up on us and grind at the spirit with their relentless demands for attention. The ensuing stress is always an unwelcome extra guest at the bonfire.
So today, after a tough few weeks, I took action. I took charge.
I did something that always manages to quieten my mind.
I went to feed the ducks at the local park.

I have no idea why this works, but - as ever - I feel remarkably upbeat as a result. Somehow, throwing bread for some lively, cheeky birds that quack and splash really helps me get my head back on straight.
I try not to overthink it.
My name is Indigo Roth. I'm 43 years old.
And, for the record, I remain young and enthusiastic.
Indigo
This blog entry is protected by copyright © Indigo Roth, 2011
We humans are, most of us, too cut off from nature. Getting out in the fresh air, walking directly on the earth, being near open water, and interacting with creatures that have no pretenses all help regenerate and rejuvenate. Don't overthink it, just keep on doing it!
ReplyDeleteOverthinking stuff is the cause of headaches and heartaches and pain in the larger sense. Feeding the ducks is quite a lovely way to spend an afternoon! I'm a believer, and I'm not even going to try to figure out why! Good job!
ReplyDeleteL.
I completely get it. It's a lot like how I feel when I'm with a horse.
ReplyDeleteAnd you're a mere 43? My God. You're a puppy. ;)
Don't worry buddy - I'm 53 and I still don't know what I want to do when I grow up. I try not to overthink it or sweat the details either. Let's face it, there are always hungry ducks to feed!
ReplyDeleteHey Blissed-Out! I love water, the sea especially, but the duckpond works too. Throw in some fresh air on a cold winter's day, and I'm good to go.
ReplyDeleteHey Leah! This, I believe, is Wisdom. And yes, it qualifies for a capital letter, too.
Hey Jayne! Yep, 43. Frankly, I'm desolate that it wasn't obvious *sigh* I'd best take this rose-tinted mirror to the dump and pay for some expensive cosmetic photoshopping.
Hey Alistair! "When I grow up?" What a worrying concept! And yes, the profusion of ducks is a great source of solace for me.
Thanks one and all! Indigo
Feeding the ducks gives us all time to reflect...
ReplyDeleteAs long as you've managed to quieten your mind. :-)
ReplyDeletePearl
not thinking is a beautiful thing....
ReplyDeleteHey Lass! Indeed. Tho try not to reflect about how much I like them with hoi sin sauce, cucumber and pancakes.
ReplyDeleteHey Pearl! In the absence of sex, drugs and pizza, it does nicely.
Hey Eolist! I wish I could get the hang of it, true enough. Tho there's a thin line between not thinking and unabashed face-slapping ignorance. So I tread carefully!
Thanks one and all! Indigo
Nobody can be uncheered with a duck. Although some of yo ducks ain't ducks. If ducks can't untangle you, listen to Stars And Stripes Forever at high volume. For serious depression, Sousa + ducks and add peanut butter. I don't even remember 43, but you're bound to feel better once your periods stop. At least that has been my observation. You're welcome.
ReplyDeleteHey Murr! This has saved me a fortune in therapy, tho the ducks now look worried. You are a fount of wisdom, I salute you. Indigo
ReplyDeleteI'm thinking I should go feed the ducks. To be fair, I did feed the birds (though it cost more than a tuppence per bag) some defrosted hamburger buns after my freezer came unplugged and we lost a ton of stuff. At least the birds and squirrels had a good meal.
ReplyDeleteWhatever works for you my friend!
ReplyDeleteKitty (Moore)
Hey Joshua! Two words - Squirrel. Burgers.
ReplyDeleteHey Kitty! Dammit, I've just caught up with your blog; it sounds like you need a multitude of ducks, and an enormous number of hugs from Mia. Take care honey.
Indigo
*seasonal ducky hugs* in the post for you
ReplyDeleteThanks, sweetie!
ReplyDeleteAwwww Indigo...I just think you are the best xoxoxo
ReplyDeleteWell bless you Kato, you're clearly insane, but the love is welcome x
ReplyDelete