Sevens and Distraction

Sevens embrace life with a joyful exuberance. They are playful, spontaneous, and open to all the possibilities life has to offer. But, by always having an eye out for the “next new thing”, they can become scattered, distracted, and unfocused. We all have a bit of Type Seven in us. What if what we have right here, right now…the trees, the monastery bell…is enough?

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When they say Don’t I know you?

say no.

When they invite you to the party

remember what parties are like

before answering.

Someone telling you in a loud voice

they once wrote a poem.

Greasy sausage balls on a paper plate.

Then reply.

If they say We should get together

say why?

It’s not that you don’t love them anymore.

You’re trying to remember something

too important to forget.

Trees. The monastery bell at twilight.

Tell them you have a new project.

It will never be finished.

When someone recognizes you in a grocery store

nod briefly and become a cabbage.

When someone you haven’t seen in ten years

appears at the door,

don’t start singing him all your new songs.

You will never catch up.

Walk around feeling like a leaf.

Know you could tumble any second.

Then decide what to do with your time.

- The Art of Disappearing, by Naomi Shihab Nye

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