On the Level
A level - such a simple tool with a powerful job...it tells the truth about balance. Place it on a surface, and that little bubble quietly reveals whether things are even, tilted, or just plain off. In life, having a “level” means keeping your personal horizon steady. Your expectations are grounded enough to be realistic, yet far enough ahead to keep you moving forward. When your inner bubble floats centered, you’re neither leaning too far into fantasy nor slumping into doubt. You’re… on the level.
We’ve found that when we set our expectations too high (like deciding we’ll write a bestseller before breakfast and compose a hit song by lunch) the bubble shoots way off center. It’s inspiring for about ten minutes, then discouraging for the rest of the day. On the flip side, if we aim too low—“Let’s just get through today”—we might stay comfortable, but we don’t grow. The trick is placing that horizon just a bit ahead: “Let’s write a page that feels honest,” or “Let’s play a melody that makes us smile.” Suddenly, progress feels possible.
Sheri: I've learned that balance isn't about lowering expectations. It's about setting them where progress is possible. Small adjustments today often lead to big changes over time.
Bill: Which is probably why my plan to become an overnight success by Tuesday never works out. The level keeps reminding me that "overnight" usually takes a lot longer than one night. 😊
There was a time we packed up our gear for a small local performance, thinking maybe a handful of folks would show. We hoped for polite applause and a smooth set. That was our level. But we also stretched just enough to imagine connecting with someone in the audience. Turns out, people did stay afterward meet us and talk. Not a stadium wave, not total silence, but bubble centered.
And then there are the days when life tilts unexpectedly, plans change, strings break, words won’t come. That’s when the level reminds us to pause, adjust, and reset. Not to scrap the project, but to realign it. A small shift can bring everything back into balance.
So, here’s the takeaway: keep your level handy. Check in with yourself. Are your expectations lifting you forward or tipping you over?
Set your sights where hope and reality meet. Take the next step, not the impossible leap.
When you live on the level, progress feels steady, purpose feels clear, and every small win becomes part of something beautifully aligned.
Sheri & Bill, Storytellers in Word Image and Song
Positive Reflections... Likeminded Perspectives
“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” — Lao Tzu |
“It is not enough to be busy; so are the ants. The question is: What are we busy about?” — Henry David Thoreau |
“Nothing will work unless you do.” — Maya Angelou |
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