Remembering My Composure. . .

 

Seems that lessons in composure have been on my plate lately.  That never-ending reminder ~ how to keep self-control, how to react with grace, how to remain calm in even the most stressful of situations.  That never-ending reminder that people often behave in ways that have nothing to do with us.  It is not personal.

Yesterday was an example of one of those moments, when the kids and I had the unfortunate mishap of being side-swiped by a car that changed lanes without looking.  My immediate reaction was to make sure that everyone was okay (which they were) and then take a deep breath and say ~ ugh, I guess this is what insurance is for.  As I calmly exited my car, it was quickly evident that the other driver had anything but serenity on her mind.  Jumping up and down, yelling at the top of her lungs, pointing fingers ~ yes, it couldn't have gotten much worse. So bad so that sweet Kate was frightened and Dylan looked as though some sort of Rambo move was on his mind.  Unfortunately, in this case even my calmness was ineffective (probably enraged her even more) and the police had to get involved.  Thankfully, a quick chat with them put her in the right frame of mind. 

However, while driving home the tears came down and I realized that even with the best of intentions, composure can't protect us from feeling threatened, scared and helpless.  Sometimes it's hard to "feel" like it isn't about you.  Maybe the real meaning of grace is allowing oneself to make room for those feelings as well. . .  

"The beauty of the soul shines out when a man bears with composure one heavy mischance after another, not because he does not feel them, but because he is a man of high and heroic temper"

Aristotle. . .

Comments

[Teah]

Hi KIm,

I'm so glad to hear that you and your lovely kiddos are alright. Wow- what a scary incident! It is in those unexpected moments that we teach our children who we really are and the lessons of staying true to who we are. I'm sure that your children appreciated your serenity more than you'll ever know. Hopefully, they will even model it for you someday soon. Cali can be a crazy place to drive. We've had a couple of similar incidents. I'm thankful that your guardian angel is as faithful as mine is. Take care. Hugs, Teah

[Cheryl M]

I'm so glad no one was hurt. Wow, I hope to have half your patience.

Blessings,
Cheryl M

[jessi nagy]

im glad you and the kiddos are ok.
it was a funny story on the phone.
everything happens for a reason.
now you just need to tell Rich that you need a new car. tee hee.
love ya doll.
oxoxox,
jessi

[Bethie]

Car accidents are so scary! thankfully everyone is alright! I absolutely love the handmade chandeliers!

[Marilyn Adams]

I'm so glad everyone is OK. Obviously this woman had something going on! Though you know it isn't about you, it still impacts you in a negative way.

[beth]

hi girlie !!! wow so glad you guys are okay - your last event looked amazing !!!!!! so glad to see things are going so well !!!
miss you and we have to meet up soon !!!
xoxo,
beth

[CupcakeDD]

Kim - full of grace,
Your sweetness and kindness are infectious.
Thank you for helping to make this world a better place!
xoxo,
Julie

[Andrea Villarreal]

Oh no!!! So sorry about the little accident. But to get a woman with a bad attitude to boot is too much:( Your poor kids having to witness that hopefully later when she replays the incident in her mind she will be ashamed of herself!! Highly doubtful but just thought I'd throw that in so you could laugh;)

[Jeanne]

So glad you all are alright...scary!

[Nancy Jamar]

Kim, thank the Lord you are all safe...that's all that counts. Hugs from here...

[Teresa McFayden]

Eeek. I feel for you and those darling little peeps of yours Kim. Glad everyone okay. Think of the great lesson you just taught your kids, too.

[jamie]

Well first of all, Thank God you all are ok. How very scary for you and the kids must have flipped out. Ughh, these little accidents really throw you for a loop don't they? Just wanted to say a quick Thank you too for a very Special little package I opened yesterday. You really did not have to do that, you can call on me anytime and I will be there to help. Thank you again, your the best and Im so glad you all are fine. Hugs, Jamie

[Alice dR]

I'm glad everyone was OK. How unfortunate that the other driver was so unreasonable and that it frightened your children. You are the epitome of grace under fire and your kids will be all the better for it.

[Susan Shintaku]

How scary! So glad you and the kids were not harmed. Huggs!

Susan

[bren yule]

Thank you for the great quote and a lesson in grace and composure...I had a similar experience and it wasn't until I got home then the tears came. It's a reminder of how precious life is and how scary it is to realize how one moment can change our lives forever. Thankfully you were all ok. blessings

[Michelle Devine]

Im sorry to hear that! But glad you all are ok.

[Joanna {sweet finds}]

Awh! I hate that you had to experience that. But I am super glad that you and the kids are ok. :)

Have a great weekend. hugs, Joanna

[Amy Tangerine]

you are always full of grace...
and i am so proud of you for standing your ground among the craziness.
i always say, "fight with nice"
the crazy people HATE that

[candice Carpenter]

Things like these only make you stronger. I love Amy's last worss of advice, "fight with nice!" love that!! You handled in like such a lady