Life IS Like a Box of Chocolates

Its hard to believe the movie "Forrest Gump" came out 18 years ago.  As I sit here this Saturday afternoon its funny how this line from the movie came to mind and this little analogy plays to life.  I would have never thought a year ago I would be where I am now.  Sure I joked with a friend about us both moving to some big city and getting out of the hustle and bustle of Billings, Montana.  Heck we had even went as far to set a moving date for the end of September 2011.

September, October, November  came and went without much more thought of what we had discussed so many months before, but change was in the works.  I was working 2 jobs, running from Columbus to Billings on almost a daily basis trying to hold life as I knew it together.  In reality, My life consisted of work.  That described who I was. I think many folks can relate.  We are what we do.  That was certainly the case for me.   I remember grumbling about wanting to go hiking.  Seems like I always had one of two problems... Either no money to get out and actually enjoy, or no time to get away to enjoy it. Usually and most likely the latter was the issue I faced.  Working at least six days a week, all I wanted to do was sleep and rest on the one day I usually had off. 

As time went on, December, January, and February, I finally found myself with plenty of time of my hands.  Leaving a certain company was the best decision I ever made, however it sure hurt the pocket book! It seems I tried to be so careful with money, All fun was the first thing cut out of my life.  My friends started referring to me as a Hermit, as I closed myself off in my little house.  So now I found myself with so much time on my hand, yet no funds to enjoy it. Seems all I did did was sleep.  It was the easiest way to pass the time.  Of course, I'm pretty sure I was a bit depressed also.  It was time to get myself together and out of my comfort zone, and start applying for the next "chocolate" in my life. 

I would have never guessed I would have not only picked a great flavored chocolate, but it seems I hit my favorite.  Now about a month and a half into my new life here in Washington, I'm starting to find a balance in between having the money, and the time to enjoy what life has to offer around us.  I never thought there would be a third obstacle to overcome.  Finding those new friends to enjoy life with.  I'm reminded there are greater things in life.  As I type this, the Movie "Into the Wild" popped into my head.  There is a scene in the movie when "Alexander" writes into his journal.. "Happiness is Not Real if not shared."  I'm hoping in the near future I can find those to share this "chocolate in life" with.  Until then, I know I still have a ways to go in this journey.  Friday June 8, 2012 was best friends day.  Thank You to all my Friends, who have been there for me during this chapter in my life.  You will never know how much you mean to me!

Eric