Torn

So, perhaps my heart’s not actually being torn in three places, but it’s the closest analogy I've got. On Sunday, June 9, there are three different events happening simultaneously and I haven’t decided which one(s) I’m attending.

The past two years I’ve been honored to participate in the Delaware Valley Congenital Heart Walk in support of the Adult Congenital Heart Association. I am proud to help bring consciousness to a cause that matters to me and to an organization that does tremendous work for those of us whose lives have been changed due to congenital heart defects. This year, the Delaware Valley Congenital Heart Walk is taking place on Sunday, June 9, and I’m not sure I’ll be present.

That same weekend there’s a writers’ conference in Philadelphia that I’ve attended in the past and am planning on going to this year as well. Writing saved my life during the often difficult teenage years and I find great fulfillment in the creative works I assemble. Meeting up with fellow writers and learning from experts in the industry gives me motivation that lasts long after the last workshop is complete. Now, I could just go to the conference on Friday and Saturday then do the DV Congenital Heart Walk on Sunday. But…there’s one more event taking place on Sunday that I’m considering attending.

Those who know me well, and those who don’t, are not surprised when I declare myself a musical theatre nerd. I love Broadway! I try and see a show at least once a year. And the big award show celebrating Broadway this year is being held on June 9! Every year I organize a theme viewing party for the awards and enjoy watching the performances from the comfort of my couch. But at the same time, I kick myself for living so close to New York City and not buying tickets to the award show, even though they’re made available to the public. Then the date was announced and my heart tore a little bit wider.

Now I’ve got lots of choices to make. The multitasker in me says that I can manage all three. Go to the conference on Friday and Saturday, walk on Sunday morning then hop a train to NYC for the awards that evening. Then the logical part of my personality reprimands me for trying to take on too much at once. If I don’t attend the conference I’ll still keep writing. If I don’t participate in the walk then I’ll still raise money and support my fellow CHDers—but if I don’t go to the awards when I have the chance then I’ll be kicking myself the rest of the year.

My heart swells with all the interests that I’m passionate about, but when they coincide, sometimes they leave me torn up a bit!