Read Me When You Need Me

Read Me When Our Plans Get Cancelled

Dear You,

In those moments when plans fall through and the disappointment settles like an unexpected shadow, I hope this letter finds you and offers a small beacon of light. It's natural to feel disheartened when things we've looked forward to, perhaps counted the days towards, suddenly unravel. Yet, within this space of altered plans and shifted expectations, there lies an opportunity for something different, albeit unplanned, to emerge.

First, it's okay to acknowledge the disappointment. It's a sign that you were invested, that you cared, and that you were looking forward to the experiences and connections those plans represented. Allow yourself a moment to sit with these feelings, recognizing them for what they are—a part of the rich tapestry of human experience.

Then, when you're ready, let's gently shift our perspective. Every cancelled plan can be a doorway to unexpected joy, a blank canvas on which to paint a new adventure or a quiet moment of introspection. Here are a few thoughts on how to pivot gracefully when plans change:

1. Embrace the Open Space: Suddenly, you have a gift of time—unstructured, free, and ripe with possibility. Ask yourself what you've been putting off because you were too busy. Is there a book that's been gathering dust on your shelf? A hobby you've wanted to explore? Or perhaps a simple need for rest?

2. Reconnect with Yourself: Use this time as an opportunity for self-care. Take a long bath, meditate, journal, or go for a walk. These moments of solitude can be profoundly restorative, allowing you to reconnect with your inner self away from the noise of scheduled plans.

3. Explore Locally: If adventure calls, consider this an opportunity to explore your local area. Visit a museum, take a hike in a nearby park, or discover a new café. Sometimes, the most memorable experiences are the ones we stumble upon unexpectedly.

4. Reach Out: Connect with friends or family members you haven't spoken to in a while. Our busy lives often leave little room for spontaneous conversations. A plan falling through could be the perfect chance to fill someone's day (and yours) with warmth and companionship, even if it's just through a phone call or video chat.

5. Reflect and Reset: Use this time to reflect on your goals and aspirations. Are your activities and plans aligned with your larger life goals? Sometimes, a pause is exactly what we need to reassess and ensure we're on the path that truly resonates with us.

While the initial sting of cancellation is undeniable, the beauty of life lies in its unpredictability. Each cancelled plan is not just a missed opportunity but an invitation to a new possibility, a reminder that joy can be found in the most unexpected places.

So, as we navigate this unexpected change of plans together, let's stay open to the serendipity of life, embracing the new stories that await us just around the corner.

With a heart full of understanding and optimism,

Jordan Spring