Fire Alarm

The fire alarm went off in the office this afternoon. My workmates and I looked questioningly at each other to know if this was real or just a drill. Then as we heard the confirmation that there was indeed an emergency happening, we grabbed our purses and started to head for the fire exit. Opening the door to our office, we immediately knew what caused the alarm. Burnt toast... as usual. This lady who forgot and consequently burned the poor toast was somehow explaining to everyone that she didn't know that the bread would burn that fast. As everyone was piling out of the fire exit, I suddenly thought that I was glad that it wasn't me who caused the alarm. But I felt sorry for her, I knew she didn't do it on purpose. Crossing the street from our office to our designated waiting spot, I saw that people were mostly amused by what happened. And after 10 minutes and two firetrucks that came over, we were told that it was safe to come back inside. And life went on as usual. This event actually was a welcome blip to our rather mundane day in the office. I was glad that there was no serious emergency like a fire or something. But the truth is, it somehow made a difference to my day. Like when you feel you're on this endless carousel ride and out of the blue something happens and it changes the typical everyday. Six or seven years ago, I felt the same way. Like my everyday is just the same. I woke up, went to work, have lunch, go back to work, go home and have dinner, watch tv, read a book then sleep. I think I was all ready for bed by 8 pm. I was thinking if this is what "living life to the fullest" looks like. I was sure that all the interesting and fulfilled people didn't live like that. I was imagining that they'll probably have every minute of everyday packed with noteworthy or should I say blog worthy incidents. That they don't sleep at 8 pm. That they're all probably so busy with all the travels, parties, chit chats with friends and then some. Fast forward to now. I now have days that seem like they are bursting at the seams. That I can't even seem to enjoy 10 minutes of uninterrupted alone time just to collect my thoughts. These are the days that make me realize that slow days are actually something to be thankful for. Today is one of those slow days. Slow day in the office and even at home.. I had time to clean the shower while thinking that there was only 2 days left until my birthday. I had time to write, and even to search for all these travel itineraries I wish I can go to someday. I had time to be quiet, to just be in the presence of my thoughts, swirling around. So for that I am saying to my old self that its ok if your in bed by 8 pm. Enjoy the quiet solace while its lasts.