OK…I think we view everything that crosses our eyes and enters our ear canals, (at least partly) with our OWN circumstances in mind.  It’s how we relate to, well…everything.  Seems fairly acceptable and human.

That being said, I’m sure that Adele, my latest 6 Grammy Totin’ Heroine (minus the hand gestures), didn’t necessarily have business in mind when she wrote “Chasing Pavements”.  Well, not the “business” I’m referring too anyway.  ;0)  I was listening to this song from her “19” CD for the umpteenth time today. — And yes, already had both Cds WELL before she was nominated thank-you-very-much, so I guess that constitutes a “true” fan —

After stopping to really study the lyrics this last time it played, I realized just WHY I’d been so attracted to this particular song.  It struck me how much of these lyrics illustrated other aspects of my life.  I mean, I’m good on the personal love relationship front, having a wonderful husband with whom I’d just celebrated our 8^th anniversary this past Valentine’s Day.  But, truth be told, I’ve been reassessing my career path lately. Wondering whether the dream of entrepreneurship and the art business I have come to love like an old friend, is truly the right direction for my family (and me) right now.

Indulge me, if you will, in the lyrics for a moment…and feel free to insert your own circumstance.

Chasing Pavements, by Adele

“I’ve made up my mind, don’t need to think it over
If I’m wrong I am right, don’t need to look no further
This ain’t lust, I know this is love

But if I tell the world, I’ll never say enough
‘Cause it was not said to you
And that’s exactly what I need to do if I’d end up with you

Should I give up or should I just keep chasing pavements
Even if it leads nowhere?
Or would it be a waste even if I knew my place
Should I leave it there?

Should I give up or should I just keep chasing pavements
Even if it leads nowhere?

I build myself up and fly around in circles
Wait then as my heart drops and my back begins to tingle
Finally could this be it?

Should I give up or should I just keep chasing pavements
Even if it leads nowhere?
Or would it be a waste even if I knew my place
Should I leave it there?
Should I give up or should I just keep chasing pavements
Even if it leads nowhere?”

(REPEAT)

Maybe I’m the only one who finds this fascinating, but to ME, Adele speaks of not just a fly-by-night feeling or superficial pleasure but of a real commitment, a true love….that “this is it” moment.  One that she also knows she needs to speak life too first before any false claims of commitment betray her to the world.  I find myself wondering if I’ve treated my passion too cheaply or not spent enough time showing how much my self-proclaimed “calling” truly means?  Have I made claims to the world, or my market, my community, that I hadn’t whispered to my dream first? And even if my love has remained pure, is it just plain worth it to hunt after that which may end up in heartache?

Hindsight being the proverbial “20-20” that it is, there is probably no coincidence that I’ve spent the past month at goal setting and strategy sessions; entrenched in empowerment events…. with motivational nuggets circling in my palette like a sweet aftertaste.

“It is never too late to be what you might have been.”

“Goals not written down are just wishes. ”

“…quitting is not an option.”

Adele posed the question….and now it seems everything else in my life wants to answer.

Whether YOUR “love” is your job, a deal you are trying to close, or a career changing phone call you’re awaiting, we can all insert this melody in the lyrics of our own lives.  I believe we SHOULD continue to ask the uncomfortable questions… to test our commitment… tweak that which needs work….walk away from doors that have closed instead of staring at the hinges waiting for them to creak again…just a little.

Great side note: Adele won, not sporting a slim physique, skimpy get-up or a “gaga” gimmick.  She “swept” on pure talent. So, whatever pavements you’re currently chasing….whatever unconventional approach or non-conforming dream you’re trailing, that should at least be an inspiration.  It HAS been for me.

So although, I still don’t have the answers exactly, and the future remains it’s typical unpredictable self, I DO know that I can’t stop moving. And, since I “do not need worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own”…. for THIS day, yup, think I’ll at least stop running barefoot and lace up the sneakers!

Can anyone else relate?  Please leave a comment below and share your story.  At the very least, let me know I’m not (we’re not) out here running around chasing pavements alone.

See ya on the “asphalt” track!