God's laughter.
A Yiddish proverb, “Men tracht und Gott lacht,” translates to “Men plan, and God laughs.” If you’re a fan of Deadwood, you may remember Al Swearengen saying, “Announcing your plans is a good way to hear God laugh.” I remember this as I read over the last eight months of entries.
When I got back into blogging, I was on a different track with writing, gaming, and other activities. I was hard-charging after a new agent, looking to switch up my self-publishing presence and making big role-playing plans. Almost all of those things have changed in reasonably short order.
It’s good to make plans; sometimes, it’s good to share them because it makes you accountable. Other times, you’re put face-to-face with the reality of life: it changes irrespective of your actions.
Eight months ago, I wanted a new agent and a renewed presence in traditional publishing. Now? I don’t. Eight months ago, I had ambitious roleplaying ideas I was sure I’d put into effect this year. Now? I have ideas, but they’re more realistic.
I’m okay with this. I don’t think regret is a healthy emotion. You make decisions, form plans, and move forward. Sometimes, reality conforms to your vision, and other times, it doesn’t. Either way, you’re a little older, wiser, and ready to start anew. And that’s the key: start anew. Don’t use it as an excuse to stop.
Where will I be eight months from now? I haven’t the slightest, and that’s fine.