People often comment on my youngest daughters name, Karma. And if I didn't know me I would probably wonder who names their kid karma? -
One day I was driving to work and there was a car ahead of me waiting to turn right onto 4th street in downtown San Rafael. Waiting impatiently behind this vehicle I read the back bumper sticker, *KARMA*. Instantly I knew it! That was the name. I thought to myself wow what a great name that would make, Karma. I loved it right away. I called her father and shared the good news of deciding on a name his response was less then enthusiastic and he said, "We'll talk about it later", when later came my oldest daughter, (then a teen ager) also gave me the thumbs down on the name Karma. Seldom being one that is easily influenced by the pessimism of others, I did not personalize their reactions and I held strong and sturdy in my decision. If I allowed the less than approving reactions from others, even those I care the most about, influence me I would likely live with regrets. I have found that 'going against the majority' is almost always the harder thing to do, yet for me it also tends to be the best. It isnt the best necessarily because it is the best decision (it in fact may not be), but it is the best because it keeps me true to myself.
Exciting week for Karma (and me). Her all star team is playing in their 'away' tournament this weekend, its in Irvine. (Last year was Huntington beach). Its usually a highlight of the All Star season, we stay in a hotel and the girls swim when their not on the field and then there is a fun talent show night on Saturday evening with all the age divisions for North Shore performing a routine of some sort. -and ice cream! theres a lot of dessert during the Saturday night event.
This weekend is also the team championship at Petco Park for the MLB *Pitch*Hit*Run competition. It is the 3rd and final round before the national finals-which is held at the MLB ALL STAR GAME. Karma placed overall champion at the local round as well as at the sectional round. The top 3 scores in each age division will now compete at Petco Park before the Padres play.
Karma wants to go to the ALL STAR GAME in Minneapolis, honestly I too want to go to the ALL STAR GAME!
As fate or karma or life would have it, there is a conflict for Karma. Her North Shore All Star tournament in Irvine and her San Diego Padres Team Championship competition at Petco park.. Must there often be a conflict? When we are happy must we feel some sadness? When we are at peace must we feel some stress? When we have excitement must we find disappointment? Must we have balance? I guess we must have balance if we don't have the ability to maintain the middle ground. and honestly, for me the middle ground sounds monotonous (tiresome). I prefer variety and energy!--
So, what is it that has this challenging conflict before us? Aside from a rewarding experience at either event, is this conflict what we call karma? or is it simply life? (or is there a difference?)
