When Plans Go Sideways (and Gratitude Steps In)

Do you ever have one of those days when the saying “Man plans and God laughs” feels a little too real? I’ve had one of those days.

My plan was simple: print and package products for my upcoming art show and finish my new display setup. Instead, the day had other ideas.

I spent it taking care of other people — helping my chosen family through a hard time and making sure my son had a safe, charged car to drive. My to-do list went untouched, and my productivity goals went out the window. But instead of seeing that as a loss, I’ve decided to see it differently.

I feel incredibly fortunate to have people I love — and who love me back — in my life. A minor setback in productivity is nothing compared to the joy and meaning of being needed, trusted, and loved.

Now, if you know me well, you know I can act warm and friendly — and I genuinely am — but the truth is, I’m a bit of a prickly person. Crowds make me anxious. I get cranky and easily overwhelmed. If you spot me at a party, I’ll probably be in the back or off to the side, observing the swirl of conversation rather than joining it. I love people… just not all of them, and definitely not in large doses.

Making friends has never been easy for me. The awkward kid who just wanted to be liked still lives inside me. I’ve never been the “cool girl,” and “easygoing” has never been a word used to describe me. But when I do make a real connection, I hold on tight. I’m loyal to the core. My best friendships span decades, and once you’re my person — well, you’re stuck with me.

Maybe that explains why I love so deeply and feel so responsible for my people. Or maybe it’s my neurodivergent brain that makes those connections run so deep. Whatever the reason, I love fiercely.

So today, even though my plans fell apart, my heart feels full. I’m grateful for the chosen family who trusts me, for friends who love me even when I’m messy, human, and a bit nuts.

Because at the end of the day, art shows can wait — but love and friendship can’t.