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Are You Giving Yourself Time To Play?

I could not resist! Driving home recently from a late afternoon appointment, I cruised by the kiddies’ rides in Kinsmen Park and thought to myself, “Why not?”

It was a stellar September day – sunny, calm and warm as could be – a beautiful day for a ride.

I pulled into the parking lot, bought myself tickets and hopped on a horse. When the merry go round rolled to a stop, I took to the skies on the Ferris wheel.

I ride carousels everywhere we go on our travels, and I hadn’t been on this one yet – this year!!!  I’m glad I took that little detour and a timeout to play.

When I posted these photos and reflections on my experience to my Facebook page, I was struck by the dozens of responses I received.

A large number of people commented with some variation on this sentiment:

  • Love it!
  • Awesome!
  • Cool!

Some had more to say:

  • Love your amazing spirit.
  • Love your sense of adventure.
  • Love your childlike playfulness.
  • How bold! And fun!
  • Love how you grabbed the unexpected opportunity.

A few proffered advice:

  • Live in the moment and enjoy!
  • Seize the day.
  • Never get too old to play.

What struck me most, though, were responses that reflected a kind of wistful, wishful thinking:

  • I’ve been thinking the same thing.
  • So many of us would think of it but then remember the ‘to do’ list.
  • I need to do that one day very soon.
  • I have always wanted to but never had the courage.

I’m guessing that many of us feel the urge to let loose and play more often than we might realize. I’m also guessing that we talk ourselves out of that impulse in favor of carrying on with our busy adult days. That would be the mature and grown-up thing to do! And after all, what would people think?

Tivoli Gardens Copenhagen

Well, as I found out, people think that taking time to play in childlike ways is downright amazing and admirable. And, it’s a gift many would claim for themselves.

So, when the next playful impulse strikes, why not do yourself a favor and say yes. Who knows who else you might inspire to do the same? And, based on my own experience, it’s a sure bet, that the world will keep on turning for those few moments when you take time out to play.

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Category:
Appreciation, Life Balance, Life in General, Wellness

6 Responses to “Are You Giving Yourself Time To Play?”

  1. Maureen Haddock

    Those of us with grandchildren have many opportunities to play. The other day, my husband and I were at Lake Diefenbaker, and he hopped from rock to rock in the lake, fully clothed. He made it safely to shore and remained dry. I think, next time, I should pack dry clothes for him as I used to for the kids. I love playing, and you made me want to ride that merry-go-round before the snow flies.

  2. Pat Katz

    Hi Maureen. I can just picture Gord rock-hopping. How fun! Hope you get a chance to ride the merry go round soon. The weather this week is perfect for it.
    Cheers, Pat

  3. Alice Hogue

    Forever Young you are Pat, I love that.
    I tell my kids and grandkids, never let the kid on you leave you, stay Forever Young. Alice

  4. Pat Katz

    Great advice, Alice! Keep on having fun! Cheers, Pat

  5. Tara Zrymiak

    Taking time to play is fantastic! My go-to is climbing on monkey bars, and dancing down the sidewalk when I am out on my walks of course. Yes, I realize people driving by probably think I am crazy; and no, I don’t care. 🙂

  6. Pat Katz

    I’d love to see you dancing down the sidewalks. I’d probably applaud – but I might joining! Cheers, Pat

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