By Marjorie Young

As someone with a decidedly spiritual bent, it is my heartfelt aim to take the ups and downs of life in stride, knowing not only that there are invariably lessons to be taught, but that a degree of detachment will always aid in putting difficulties into perspective. Clearly, that is a charming idea in theory, but when ‘reality bites,’ it is not always so easily put into practice…serving to remind me yet again of how very far I have to go in living my ideals.

Very recently, I learned that my Ballard home will be put up for sale. The news was a jolt, having lived there for twenty years and more. Certainly, the fact that I might have to leave was unsettling, but beyond that, it came as a shock to realize how neighborhood rents have skyrocketed…making the chance of finding an affordable new place slim indeed. As for low-cost housing, a waiting list of up to five years is the norm.
I would like to report that I took all this in stride. Instead, I became stressed, upset, and depressed. One interesting sidelight, by the way, was the response of friends and family to my dilemma. While a few were encouraging and supportive, some seemed to back away, while still others carried their commiserations too far, echoing my own worst fears. (Everyone please take note: a few positive words are always welcome during any sort of crisis! Crepe hangers accomplish little, other than adding gloom and doom to an already difficult circumstance).

There is special irony in the fact that my fantasy/adventure series, ‘The Boy with Golden Eyes,’ frequently finds the young hero Rupert and his comrades in dire straits indeed. The lesson they receive, over and over again, is that even our darkest moments offer possibilities to learn and grow. Beyond that, tribulation may carry with it a larger meaning, which, in the end, delivers a profound and positive import. In other words, moving forward with conviction and staying true to oneself serves to keep us on course…while crediting that ‘higher forces’ may have a hand in our unfolding destinies. But again, it’s a far simpler matter to write about this lovely philosophy than to actually live it.

When things are difficult, I utilize a reality check. I remind myself that I am neither in a concentration camp nor aboard the Titanic…which makes almost anything else seem like a breeze to deal with in comparison! This often works as a temporary remedy. But in truth, I quite envy those born with a sunny, optimistic nature. What a blessing that is and how helpful in leading a fruitful life. I readily confess, that is not my basic disposition…instead, I realize distinct ups and downs. Remaining optimistic takes effort, as does maintaining the knowledge that a higher purpose guides our path. Like everyone else, I am very much a work in progress. So in the midst of my current situation, I’ll hang tight and hope for the best; hopeful I will somehow reap a perhaps intangible benefit from whatever unfolds. And if you know of a bargain apartment in Ballard, do let me know!

Marjorie is available for readings at the Ballard Sunday Market, her Ballard home, or by phone.
Please email her: myballardpsychic@gmail.com

See her fantasy/adventure series: www.theboywithgoldeneyes.com
Follow her on Twitter: @psychicmargie