The Artemis 2 astronauts made it back. They executed the mission and went further than anyone has ever gone before.

As I recall, the NASA missions are well thought out. There is a checklist, and a plan for every situation.

Still

Back here on earth, people were holding their breath waiting for the astronauts to land safely. Sure, there are checklists and all the situations had been considered. But we’ve seen those plans go wrong before. And remember, they were going to see what no one had ever seen before.

The astronauts are back safe and we are all breathing again.

I never left, but my life right now seems like I’m bouncing around on the dark side of the moon.

I am in a new place I’ve never been before

It’s been more than 8 months since I had a job. That’s disturbing and different.

I’ve been trying but failing.

I also put my energy into publishing this book I had on hold.

Stupid cancer kept me from finishing it. A month ago I launched it. And people are loving it. I am getting appreciation and validation. I’m so grateful.

Unlike NASA, I didn’t have a plan for this. I didn’t expect success. What does this require from me?

The book itself is full of systems, checklists and ways to organize. That’s my specialty.

Except I am not doing any of these things. I am on the far side of the room trying to pick up all the green cheese.

What am I doing?

I don’t know anything. I am scrambling and distracted and I don’t know the territory.

Except I did get here. That has to count for something.

Back to the fundamentals. I have collected some trusty tools and tricks.

I can concentrate on what I know. The new stuff needs to wait for a minute.

I’m figuring it out. I’ll get home safe. Keep Breathing.