The Pool

The other day our family, along with some good family friends, ventured out to go swimming at a local hotel’s pool. Since we’ve lived here, and even before that, the pool has welcomed guests. There’s been a very relaxed policy about visitors. So long as you are not rowdy, and purchase food or drink from the facility, you were welcome on campus. At some point unbeknownst to us, their policy changed.

Upon arrival, we were confronted by security and we four adults and six kids were instructed to purchase day passes in order to use the pool. Thus, we went to the concierge desk, prepared to purchase the wristbands that identified us as pre-approved guests. There we were met with a mildly grumpy lady who was not trying to have us use the pool. She reluctantly informed us that it would cost our family of five nearly $125 USD to use the pool, plus a $50 refundable deposit, provided we didn’t damage anything or anyone.

Unfortunately, none of us were prepared to spend that type of money for a day at the pool. As the kiddos grew restless, feeling so close, yet so far from the cool, crisp water, I took to the internet to track down an alternative. Happily finding one, we piled back into the car and drove the half mile up the road to another recommended, kid-friendly hotel.

Now prepared to pay a day rate but hopeful it was a bit less costly, we inquired at the desk. Instead of being greeted gruffly, we were told there was no fee and were graciously shown to the pool area. There we were introduced to a lovely waitress and given some prime kid-watching, chaise lounge real estate. We spent nearly five hours splashing in the sun, enjoying a delicious lunch and cool drinks. We grown-ups were so grateful to this beautiful hotel for their hospitality.

Make a Margarita

While the day started off a bit rocky, it ended with sleepy, suntanned kids, satisfied adults and a great time had by all. When the first hotel informed us that we were not welcome without a day pass, we had the choice to stay and make a big deal about it, quit and go home, or simply, find an alternative. As parents however, we knew we had to find a happy ending for the kiddos. We just had to.

Being restricted from the pool was an obstacle, a wrench thrown in our plans. Despite this, we were blessed to still have a choice in the matter. We couldn’t control the circumstances, but we could control our response to them.

Have you ever found yourself barred from doing something, or discovered that an opportunity is no longer available as was initially believed?

Sometimes we might allow those roadblocks to keep us from moving forward. We allow them to do exactly what they’re designed to do. Stop us cold in our tracks. We are left feeling incomplete, unhappy and perhaps stifled. Other times, however, we choose to make the best of it. When we choose to direct our response towards the good, we will more often than not come out on the other end, happier, more satisfied, and stronger.

Have you ever had a great idea that was torn apart by a disbelieving friend? Have you ever attempted to step into your greatness, only to be brought down by a ‘concerned’ parent or relative? Has something ever seemed so far out of reach that you simply didn’t even try to attain it? In life we get the choice that when we’re served limóns (aka: limes), we can make something beautiful, bold, and life-changing like a good margarita. And yes, here in Mazatlán, margaritas are life-changing!

All That to Say…

Life is not always easy. The path to the things you desire and dream of may not always be smoothly paved. There will be setbacks, designed to keep you from your goal. You will encounter forks in the road at which you will have to make important decisions. There will be well-meaning friends and family, who, because of their own insecurities or self-doubt, may discourage you from doing the very things in life that bring you the most peace and joy. These things cannot define your success. These people, these events, cannot derail your happiness.

Take the limóns you’re served and make a margarita. Why? Because in the end, your peace of mind, your happiness, and your dreams brought to life, are the stuff that the best life ever is made of!