We allow others to determine when we will be happy; when we will be peaceful; when we will be upset; and what we will say, do, think, and feel. We forfeit our right to feel peaceful at the whim of our environments. — Codependent No More, Beattie
I sit in the airport, ready to take hold
of an adventure I planned six years ago,
of an adventure I planned six years ago,
showing my grandsons Lake Michigan.
I’m defying someone special by going.
And his words as we got in the car
to go to the airport ring in my ears.
My instinct is to forfeit my happiness
at the whim of an angry man.
I am not responsible for his opinions, actions, words.
I’m only responsible for mine,
and having considered the needs
of everyone involved, including my own,
for once, I’ll stand on that decision
and fly away, choosing serenity and joy.
