On Saturday night Bryan and I had a date night in town which included a delicious dinner at Mundo Vegan (seriously one of the best meals I’ve had in a long time) and a movie I can’t stop thinking about. Wish I Was Here with Zach Braff and Kate Hudson explored many themes, including (most poignantly) the relationships we have with our family members and how beautifully flawed they are.
At the age of 35, Aidan (played by Braff) finds himself at a crossroads when he learns that his father’s cancer has returned. The movie was heavy and I found myself sniffling long after it had ended. But I loved every minute–the Californian backdrop and problems of a real marriage; the complications that finances and children throw into the picture. Religion vs. Faith. Fantasy vs. Reality.
“Things left unsaid” is a common thread in the film which naturally made me think of the relationship I have with my own parents. My mother has tried unsuccessfully to discuss some grave realities with me, and as someone more focused on the present, I find it difficult to think about the uncertainty of our collective futures.
And really, who wants to walk into this conversation?
For the past few days I’ve been thinking of the many years I sat anticipating each birthday, as though a fresh start would give my life a deeper meaning. And how wasteful that was, now that I can look back from my own 35-year-old crossroad.
I thought today I’d write a list of random thoughts and things that give my life meaning (in no particular order).
- I’ve realized I’m infinitely happier with a dog than I am without.
- A night with girlfriends and a bottle of white wine is favorable to a crowded bar filled with strangers and acquaintances.
- I’d rather walk than sit.
- I hope never to lose my hearing because I love having a soundtrack in life.
- I will start saving now to surprise my mother with a trip to Vegas for her 70th birthday next year.
- I’m THISCLOSE to getting into crow pose. What it’s taught me? Fear is the only thing that sets me back in life.
- I need to take more vacations by myself. Perhaps to an ashram.
- This path that I’m currently on has a lot of potholes, detours, and u-turns. It is not direct. It is not easy. But when I think about the many years spent in a cubicle breathing in recycled air and hearing the word “streamline” over and over, I know that I have chosen the right destiny.
- Project semi-colon tattoo may be in effect shortly.
Have you seen Wish I Was Here? What were your thoughts, and what are you grateful for today?
My Inner Chick says
◾A night with girlfriends and a bottle of white wine is favorable to a crowded bar filled with strangers and acquaintances.**
I loooove this entire piece! Superb. xx
Edward Thomas says
My advice is to have those conversations with your mom! Few aging parents (and at 69, she’s not old!) ever want to discuss uncomfortable things, so seize the moment.
Liz says
That you managed to figure out these 9 truths about yourself at 35 isn’t wasteful. It’s just the opposite! Some people go their entire lives without knowing what makes them tick. I’ve recently had similar *duh, why didn’t I realize that about myself before?! I’ve wasted so much time!* moments. But at least from this point forward, I can do what works for me rather than trying to do the opposite — and then get frustrated when it’s such a struggle!
Eve says
I’m grateful that Charlotte is my best friend and that everything she writes has heart and is not just a big jumble of multisyllobic word thrown out there just to make her look smart. Her observations on life and our conversations are and always have been the most meaningful I’ve ever had. I’m grateful to have her in my life and I will never lose sight of how special the writer of My Pixie Blog is to me. Thank you, Charlotte, for being the writer of my soul.
Karen Peterson says
Wish I Was Here is on my MUST SEE list. I can’t wait. I’ve heard great things.
I love your observations. So much wisdom.
Krysten says
Um, vacation to Wisconsin and we’ll get tats together. Duh.
Michael John Sullivan says
Excellent review. Thanks for sharing your poignant thoughts. I’ve seen it three times now and I pick up on other great lines I missed.
Jen says
Sounds like I need to see this movie. I love your list. It really made me stop and think.
Becca says
I haven’t seen that movie but I have heard great things about it! I have been trying to get into crow pose for a year now but I think I still need to work on my upper arm strength!
carma says
you have definitely chosen the right destiny – getting out of cublicle hell. You seem very much at peace so you must be onto something 🙂
Theboxqueen says
This is such a great post of reflection on what gives your life meaning. I love that you chose a path in life that is the most fulfilling for you and enjoyed reading all the other random thoughts. Visiting back from the SITS Share and very happy to find your internet home. XO, Elif
MarfMom says
I had forgotten that movie was out, but I do want to see it! I love your list, too. I can relate to a lot of your list, especially the time with close girlfriends.
Akaleistar says
I love it when a movie leaves you thinking it and how it applies to your own life!
Melissa @ Completely Eclipsed says
What a thoughtful and insightful post. I love movies that make me think. I like how you’re coming to know who you are but that there are always detours along the road.
Jin Ai says
I haven’t seen the movie but from what you describe, it’s going on my Must Watch list. Those are significant reflections you have there!