Best laid plans

Today, I took an Amtrak train to visit a dear friend. As the rhythmic hum of the tracks accompanied me on my journey, I found myself reminiscing about the last time I took an Amtrak. It was more tgan two decades ago, a 10-hour ride from Los Angeles to San Francisco with my daughter, Sana, who was just two years old at the time. Back then, she adored Barney, and her tiny hands would clap excitedly at every song. As her mother, I sat beside her, my heart full of dreams for our future. I imagined all the wonderful moments we would share, the milestones she would reach, and the person she would become. The future seemed like a blank canvas, ready to be filled with vibrant, happy memories. Yet, life has a way of unraveling our best-laid plans. As I gazed out of the train window today, I realized how little control we truly have over what lies ahead. Despite our hopes and dreams, the path we envision for our family doesn’t always unfold as we expect. Sana’s journey taught me this profound truth. We plan and dream, but the future remains a mystery, shaped by forces beyond our control. As parents, we hold glorious dreams for our children and family, hoping to shield them from pain and lead them towards happiness. But reality, with its unexpected twists and turns, often writes a different story. This reflection brought me a deeper understanding: the importance of living each day in the present, as the future has no certainty. Instead of being consumed by plans for tomorrow, we need to embrace the present moment, cherishing the time we have with our loved ones. On that long train ride years ago, I was focused on the future, envisioning countless happy days ahead. Today, I understand that the true value lies in the present—in the smiles, the laughter, and the love we share right now. Each day is a gift, a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime, regardless of what the future holds. So, as the train carried me toward my destination, I made a promise to myself. To live each day fully, to cherish every moment with the people I love, and to let go of the illusion of control over what’s to come. Life’s unpredictability is its essence, and within it lies the beauty of the unexpected, the strength found in resilience, and the joy discovered in the present.