When I journeyed to Prague in the middle of July to meet a new member of my family and celebrate my birthday, something remarkable happened to me.
It's not being an aunt that has impacted me, and it's not even my birthday, (still, it reminded me that Jesus Christ died at this age, which made me think that life is short). And despite everyone saying that everything is in front of me and that I am young, (it must be the fact that I have mostly older people around me). I feel the clock ticking.
Yes, great things are waiting for me to be ready to achieve. Still, 33 is a number that tells me, "Go get it, girl, time is running out."
Anyway…
It was something else that moved me in a way.
I found myself seated comfortably in the lounge, dressed in full leather attire. Unusually, I chose a spot away from the spotlight, a decision that upon reflection reveals multiple influencing factors.
Traveling with my dog, he effortlessly stole the spotlight and while I don't mind the attention he draws, I do not appreciate when people try to touch him. It’s baffling how some people feel entitled to touch someone else’s dog simply because it’s cute and obedient.
But it wasn’t even the fact that someone wanted to touch my dog that made me retreat to a secluded spot.
I took an early flight, so I was tired and put on my glasses to hide my sleep-deprived look, and of course, to look stylish.
Combined with my full leather outfit, I felt appropriately dressed but still feeling off.
Why?
The real culprit was my shoes. I made a big mistake.
Thinking I was traveling in the morning with my dog, I decided to wear….. wait for it….. sneakers.
What a blunder!
This choice made me feel uncomfortable, and consequently, I isolated myself.
It’s paradoxical that wanting to be too comfortable actually made me uncomfortable and even averse to social interaction.
Mistake? No, a valuable lesson!
As with any learning experience, it’s essential to analyze what happened.
I remember the moment I was deciding which shoes to wear. It was too hot for boots, most people would say, but not me! I never think it’s too hot for boots.
I told myself, “I have two pieces of luggage and a dog. What if I have to run to catch him?”
That was nonsense; it’s never happened! Yet, it somehow influenced my decision.
My third thought was, “With all this luggage, I don’t want to damage my boots because my dog often knocks things over.”
Again, easily manageable.
It’s fascinating how irrational thoughts, projections, and unfounded fears can impact our decisions and lead to missed opportunities.
Because of my shoe choice, I stayed put until it was time to board. I missed a chance to connect with long-time followers who spotted me at the airport and sent me a heartwarming message. I also avoided another fan who was on the same lounge and for whom meeting me would have been a dream come true.
Today, a few weeks later, I see this as a valuable lesson that has taught me a lot.
The satisfaction of sharing my knowledge, experiences, or simply brightening someone’s day with a meeting is more fulfilling than the world’s most comfortable shoes.
You are my community, and I promise to make better shoe choices to give you the best of me.
Thank you for your loyalty, support and devotion.
There is no Power Of Leather without you!
I always enjoy your articles, Deni. Since your wearing a full leather outfit, but going for a more casual look then you can get away with wearing sneakers.....it's not a mistake when you can make it work. However, I can understand that some leather clothes/outfits need the right shoes combination for a satisfying look.
With all the travelling that you do, I hope that you visit Toronto one day. If you ever do, I will definitely reach out.
Good article