Writer Gabriel Garcia Marquez is claimed to have said that the longer he knew his wife, the less he knew her. It’s not that familiarity breeds contempt; it’s that familiarity fools us into believing we are experts.
And we stop observing.
I’ve spent quite a few years being less observant. But, so much is changing…the kids have all left home. And I spend more time writing than planning meals. And I’m packing for our upcoming move. And my body is changing. So much is changing…
And my internal world is changing…it feels more fragile, more groundless.
Previously groundlessness frightened me, but now it feels more real. Because what do I really know? Except that everything changes.
And every moment is new. And rich with mystery. But only if I have curious eyes. Open questioning eyes. Uncertain eyes.
Poet Ranier Maria Rilke wrote, If the angel deigns to come, it will be because you have convinced him, not by tears but by your humble resolve to be always beginning, to be a beginner.
Letting go of knowing, resting into the mystery, living with more questions than answers is quiet and peaceful, like a morning walk as the sun rises.
Tara Zafft, Ph.D. 