A qualification
to give credit where credit is due, as we're here together
It is a fine line on the internet to write with consideration for the privacy - if not at least the anonymity - of those who may appear in a story or its context, while also acknowledging their existence, input and impact.
It was very adamantly pointed out to me by my son, upon reading, that my recent vacation down-day was his plan and his alone. As was my awareness and subsequent appreciation of all of the little shops available for my daily needs in Maltese towns. He insisted on a day to relax and I followed suit. We visited the closest shops we could for food and amenities. We napped, read and rested.
So, all credit for the down-day goes to my 19 year old on his second visit to the country, this time as a reluctant tour guide to his mom whose primary instinct is to see all the things.
He again took the road of balance the day prior with an afternoon nap as I took in a pre-historic temple archaeology site in a neighbouring town. That morning’s visit to the National Museum of Archaeology was enough old rocks for one day for some, but not all, of us.
And so there is the balance of balance. I do not need to see all of the ancient sites and ruins in one vacation, but I would be very displeased with myself to have not taken the opportunity to visit and experience at least one. My kid, however, prioritizes his outings in small doses and with ample rest in between, even more vehemently this trip following a very busy Christmas season work schedule and focus on bringing home his cat. We’re simply here for different things. We value different things about this trip that reflect one or more of our core values in life. Whether it’s vacation, day to day or other life events, how we show up reflects who we are.
It’s just as critical that I take the opportunity to step into, understand and learn from his reasons for being here, as it is to engage in and learn from mine.
We’re here for different things, but we’re here together.