When’s the last time you took a risk? The last time you ignored the naysayers and tried something even though you weren’t sure how it would turn out? When’s the last time you did something for YOU? (Without worrying about what others think…) If you follow me on Facebook, you know that last week I stepped a bit out of my comfort zone and tried something new – motorcycle class.
Unfortunately, sometimes when we want to try something new, there are those around us who aren’t very supportive. There are those who will try anything to get us to change our minds, who try to plant that seed of doubt.
As soon as I mentioned taking motorcycle class, I had one relative who pretty much told me I’d die if I chose to ride a motorcycle. She went right into a story about some person she knew who had a motorcycle accident, and kept talking even when I let her know I wasn’t interested in hearing her story right then with both my kids sitting there wide-eyed and listening. I let her know that you can die driving a car or just crossing the road, too, but I don’t plan on giving up those activities. Everything we do has some risk to it; you can’t let that keep you from trying new things.
I’ve got another who keeps suggesting I get a 4-wheeler instead. (Should I tell him I have known a couple people who have died on those?) All the while he thinks it would be fun for me to drive the kids on it. Hello! Every single 4-wheeler I’ve seen says not to ride with passengers, much less 2 wiggly passengers. Yeah, I’ll do something supposedly safer for me and endanger my kids instead…. No, I don’t think so. (Silly me, I’m also the one who makes sure my kids are properly strapped into their car seats.)
Why is it that some people feel the need to control other people’s lives? Why is it that some people have to be so ready to spew negative thoughts?
Think about it; even when it comes to something wonderful like having a child… We all know that person who has to talk about their 20 hour labor, being on bed rest, or the risks of losing a child as soon as they find out someone is pregnant.
Why is that?
You get one life; you can’t live it for everybody else. If there is something you want to try, something you want to do, you have to take the opportunity if you get a chance. When I’m 80 years old (wishful thinking, perhaps), I want to be able to look back on my life and feel content. I don’t want to spend those last years wondering what could have been or wishing I’d done XYZ. Not only that, but I have to remember I’m teaching by example here. I don’t want my kids believing they shouldn’t try something just because someone else has to give their two cents of why they shouldn’t do it.
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Want to hear how motorcycle class went? Stay tuned!
Maureen@Scoops of Joy says
Your post make me smile, because I understand. I’ve been there before. Just recently actually. Seize the moment, taking chances…I agree with you wholeheartedly. So good to found your blog here. 🙂
OneMommy says
I wish you well on your “seizing the day” moments!
Rachelle says
Bravo! Make sure someone takes pictures! I used to love riding on my Daddy’s motorcycle when I was really young. I could see myself riding my hubs (dream) cycle now… You live and need to LIVE 🙂
OneMommy says
I definitely need to get the camera out next time!
Shell says
I’m glad you are ignoring the naysayers and doing what you want to. Sounds like you are well-versed in the risks and will be careful.
OneMommy says
My husband practically has me wrapped in a bubble when I ride. 🙂
Chris Carter says
AMEN to THIS!!! I don’t get it either- why people have such an urge to steal our joy because of their projections on the situation or circumstance. Drive me nuts.
You GO GIRL!!!! DO IT!! I think that is just SOOOOOO DARN COOL. 🙂
Donna DM Yates says
Perfect! I loved this post. You go, girl! You are so right. I have one person very close to me that doesn’t believe in my writings and is now ignoring anything to do with it. It’s because he’s so sure I’m going to fail and be hurt.
Yes, you might fall off and be hurt. Yes, I might fail and be hurt. But we’re choosing to do and to learn and to grow.
Naysayers. Phhh. By the way, you can get up one morning and trip and…well, that’s all I’m saying. Live your life. Go for it.
Rabia @TheLiebers says
People always seem to have to one up each other. It certainly isn’t a kind way to interact!
Sheila Skillingstead says
Your spam protection makes me laugh. I’m a math teacher and kids wonder when they’ll ever need math. They are the naysayers in my life. I try to give them ideas of where the specific math topic can be used. The worst naysayer is the one inside of you. You can be your worst enemy. Thanks for the post. Enjoy the motorcycle classes and Sharefest.
OneMommy says
You can definitely be your own worst naysayer!
I hate when kids think they won’t need math. So many times I go to the store and find a young cashier who doesn’t know what change to give.
Angela says
I loved this post so much I had to write a follow up and linked it back to your post here.
OneMommy says
Can not wait to read your post! 🙂
NIcola says
Good for you! Hope you had an awesome ride!