I have learned to trust the Universe. Call it what you will – God, Spirit, Higher Power, Nature – it’s anything but me. I get that lesson time and time again when I have the illusion of control and try to orchestrate life. Don’t know about you, but that just doesn’t seem to work well.

Take this trip I am currently on to California. I decided that I wanted to go to California on a book tour. My intention was that I would take a week and set up meetings, events and book signings from San Francisco to San Diego. Book it solid and get a good return on my investment. I knew enough people and am creative enough to do that. So, I set out doing just what I needed to do to make that happen. I can be very good at doing.

And what happened? Pretty much nothing. Except one book signing at a very cool book store in downtown LA – in the middle of the week. I was getting pretty frustrated and upset. What was up with that? I was doing everything I could think to do! And, at the same time, I was getting notes from friends in and around the LA area saying “Come stay with me!”

Here’s where that “trust thing” kicked in: I listened to that. I trusted that maybe this trip was not about doing more, but about being present. About reconnecting with dear friends and relaxing into the California lifestyle (although walking 22K steps a day is not this Jersey girl’s normal “relaxing” pattern!). And I talked. And I listened. And I found bonds and connections and laughter and tears. The important things.

This week I have my one “doing” event of the week: my book signing. And while I am thrilled for the opportunity to promote my book and its message, I am looking forward so much more to seeing friends I haven’t seen in years. What a blessing!

Doing is wonderful. But I’m discovering that the place to find the joy in life is in the not doing. Be well!