Shifting Worries into Wonders: Finding Joy in My Cousin's Legacy
My cousin Jesse, in my regalia ready to attend the celebration of the 6 pole raising in Skidegate 2001. He was one of the carvers.
Losing someone close to us often brings a flood of emotions, memories, and reflections. My cousin, who passed away, left me with a simple yet profound saying that continues to resonate in my heart: "No point in worrying; it only gives you grey hair and wrinkles." These words, spoken with a gentle smile and unwavering optimism, hold the key to a transformative mindset shift—from worry to wonder.
Jesse “Kane” was a maverick and total wild card of the family, yet the support and love he gave were wholehearted. He could shift anyone from a bad or depressed state into one of laughter and joy. He was my safe place, my ally, my brother, and the best fishing partner anyone could ask for.
The Paralysis of Worry
Worrying is a natural response to life's uncertainties and challenges. It's like a shadow that follows us, casting doubt, anxiety, and fear over our thoughts. We worry about the future, about things beyond our control, about what others think of us, about the unknown. Yet, in the grand scheme of things, worry serves no purpose other than to steal our presence of now, our peace of mind, and cloud our vision.
Unlocking the Power of Wonder
I heard a quote from Neale Donald Walsch he offered a challenge in the form of a question “What would your life be like if you could shift your worries to wonders?” This powerful question haunted me. What would my life be like if I could shift from worrying to wondering? On the other hand, wonder is like a beacon of light cutting through the darkness of worry. It's the curiosity that sparks creativity, the awe that ignites inspiration, and the gratitude that fuels joy. Shifting from worry to wonder is not about denying reality or avoiding challenges; rather, it's about changing our perspective and approach to life's ups and downs.
One of his many carvings
Generating Momentum Through Wonder
When we embrace wonder, we generate a momentum of movement. Instead of being paralyzed by fear and uncertainty, we become curious explorers, eager to discover new possibilities and insights. Wonder opens doors to creativity, resilience, and growth. It invites us to ask questions, seek answers, and marvel at the beauty of life's journey. Another part of my cousin's legacy, his artwork, has been a source of inspiration. He was a talented Haida artist, and I have the privilege of having one of his designs on my button blanket. Like him, my blanket wraps me in safety and gives me the courage to stand up and keep showing up. He supported me in life, and now he has my back.
Honouring My Cousin's Wisdom
In honouring my cousin's wisdom, I choose to shift my worries to wonder. I remember his laughter, his unwavering optimism, and his ability to find joy in the simplest moments. He taught me that worrying robs us of precious time and energy, while wonder fuels our sense of wonderment and appreciation for life. Jesse told me so often when we were growing up that I worry too much. He would so often ask why, why do you worry so much? Everything always works out, name one time things didn’t work out. I would get grumpy at him, and not really pay attention or change the subject. He was right; everything always has worked out. It may never always be what I wanted it to be, but it always does. I may not have known then what a gift he was giving me, I love that now I get to unwrap this gift on a regular basis. Every time I shift from worrying to wondering I hear his laugh, and feel his presence with me.
Showing off his catch on the Westside
Embracing the Journey
As I navigate the path of grief and remembrance, I embrace the journey from worry to wonder. I let go of anxieties that weigh me down and embrace the gift of each moment. I find solace in nature's beauty, in the kindness of loved ones, and in the resilience of the human spirit. In shifting my worries to wonder, I honour my cousin's legacy of optimism and joy, and living life to the fullest possible.
Closing Thoughts
May we all find the courage to shift our worries to wonder. In doing so, we unlock the door to a life filled with curiosity, gratitude, and joy. Let us embrace each day with open hearts and minds, ready to marvel at the wonders that surround us.
“No point in worrying, it only gives you grey hair and wrinkles.”
