By Karma Christine Salvato
Staff Writer
OK, I admit it — I am a movieaholic.
Last week alone I saw seven movies. That’s right, seven. I am also an overachiever. Yes, I am one of those. So actually, last week’s outings to the theater were out of the ordinary for me — at least that many times in one week. Normally I am off studying or getting myself involved in some sort of school-related activity.
Dare I say the “F” word (no, not that one), but last week I just felt like having a little F-U-N. Call me crazy but I am finally beginning to listen to all the people throughout my life who have told me to “just relax.”
There I said it.
Relax.
What a concept. And frankly, it has been a difficult one for me to grasp.
Until recently that word wasn’t even part of my vocabulary. But, I think I am finally beginning to appreciate the meaning and understand its value and relevance in our lives. To all of you overachievers out there — it’s OK to let loose every now and then and have some fun. Really, it is.
As long as you don’t get too out of control, the party police won’t haul you in. Promise. Studying 24/7 and partying every night are both unhealthy habits and rather extreme. There has to be a balance. And, in order to stay sane in this fast-paced world, it is necessary to find that balance.
Think of life in terms of walking across a balance beam (or tightrope) while juggling, say, oranges (or in more specific terms: church, school, work, a social life, etc.). You need to be focused and concentrate so you don’t fall (or end up directionless in life), but also remember to relax and smile.
Life is short. We only get one chance so it is important to make every moment count. Continue to work hard and shoot for the stars, but don’t forget to stop every now and then and look up at the sky. Soak in the scenery and just breathe.
Work hard, but play harder. You owe it to yourself. Trust me, the days will pass by quite quickly. Don’t be one of those people who looks back on their life with regret and a feeling of exhaustion. Don’t work yourself into an early grave either. Have fun and be sure to laugh a lot. Take a break from the hustle-bustle of your day and go relax. Schedule it in if you have to — just do it. It will help rejuvenate your mind, body, soul and spirit.
Remember Ferris Bueller? He had the right idea. I wouldn’t condone skipping class but he did make a pretty good point when he said, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you might miss it.”
So go on you overachievers, keep overachieving, but once in a while break free from the studying slammer and go play! Come to think of it, I think I might just go and see another movie.
–Ready for a break? E-mail Karma Christine Salvato at PrancingPen@aol.com.
February 06, 2003
