The Unknown

Some people like to be in control. They like to remove all aspects of the unknown from their daily routine. Chance, risk, and uncertainty are almost dirty words in their organized and tidy existence. These people are most happy when their lives are void of surprises. Life is too dynamic to be lived in such a sterile way. I had a weekend a few years ago where the entire trip was a lesson in the virtue of allowing life to happen.

*Story 1*

I decided to visit a friend of mine in Orlando on a whim. She was out of the county until Saturday, but since I found a great price on a flight for Friday I flew down then. My friend's friend pick me up at the airport and I hung out with her lovely friends at a party for the evening. I ended meeting interesting people and enjoyed some authentic Italian wine. I could of have been nervous about having a stranger pick me up at the airport or gotten uptight about attending a party in which I knew no one. But instead, I jumped into the experience whole heartily and ended up with a memorable night.

*Story 2*

The next day my friend arrived and we went to her capoeira class. For those who do not know this sport, let me explain. Capoeira is a type of martial arts that originated in Brazil with the African slaves. The slaves were not allowed to practice their martial arts, so they turned it into a graceful dance that mimics fighting. My friend asked if I wanted to join her lesson, so I quickly thought about it. Hmmm... hot Brazilian men... shirtless....fighting. It was an easy decision to join in. Despite my lack of coordination, I jumped in with both feet, literally. I learned the steps, kicked the bags, and did all that the mestre(instructor) requested of me. I could have been timid or self-conscience and sat on the sidelines, but where is the fun in that? I always want to take every opportunity afforded to me to experience, learn, and grow.

*Story 3*

After our busy day of martial arts, my friend and I were ready for dinner. We looked through a list of restaurants for which she had coupons for. We both hadn't tried Indian food, and so we decided to take a chance and try some. I am so glad we were a bit adventurous with our cuisine choice because the food was divine. Curry, lamb, and naan are now staples in my diet. The savory Indian food was infused with an array of spices that everyone should try at least once. I know many people don't care for 'ethnic' food. They stick to standards like steak and potatoes, but there is a world of flavors like coriander, ginger, saffron, and cilantro that your taste buds are truly missing out on.

Step out into the unknown. Try things that are new and different. Every time I have taken a chance, I am always delighted at the results.