My ex-boyfriend John Higby keeps popping to mind these days. I think it’s the wacky factor. The ‘make life up and make it wacky factor.” John is the epitome of wacky, the ultimate in living a creative life out of the box. How does he do it?
He’s a yo-yo pro. That’s right. Yo-yo. That toy on a string. Pro. You heard me. Professional yo-yo player.
He’s also a very talented artist and an all-around good guy. We dated for six years. During that time I left my job and became a coach. John encouraged me and was a model for living a wacky life. He bought me my first phone for coaching, using money from his salaried position as a yo-yo pro. That’s right. Salary.
I don’t think I need to say anymore about the fact that anything is possible, but I like to go on about something that makes me giggle, so I will.
John is now married and he and Rebecca travel the world yo-yoing. (I always wanted to do that with him but I had to do my own show in life, not become a part of his.) John has broken world yo-yo records and has been on the David Letterman show. The best part of it is that he’s having fun and doing his art. He loves meeting people, inspiring kids, and showing that wacky is the way.
John’s in my mind these days because what I am doing is a bit wacky. And I’m encouraging others to be wacky. By wacky I mean adventurous, creative, right-brained. Not being bogged down by details or reined in by fears. Willing to do new things in new ways.
I just got off the phone with a courageous client. She’s about to take her big leap – a reconnaissance trip to Australia to see if she wants to live there. She’s bought the ticket and like magic – or journey juju – doors are opening for her. Things are happening. The best thing is the excitement in her voice when she talks about this trip. It’s obvious to me that she’s gotta go for it. Fears and logistics need to be overcome, but that’s nothing compared to the life force behind her voice. It’s thrilling to be a part of it.
The next time you catch yourself thinking that something isn't possible, remember John Higby. Remember me and the other people who are doing things that seem impossible. And get a little wacky.
It amazes me at how many different passions are out there in the world. WOOT!!! It makes life interesting.
Hugs, JJ
Posted by: JJ Loch | May 01, 2008 at 06:33 AM
Yo-yoing for a living! I love it--it's definitely wacky. I'd like to be wackier. I'm sure my friends are now saying, "Don't worry; you're PLENTY wacky." What could I do today that would be wacky? How about this--I threw work to the wind and went to see Jackie Chan and Jet Li kick butt on screen. Wacky enough?
Posted by: Monica Parker | May 01, 2008 at 03:45 PM
Wacky enough, Monica. You are wacky, too, I know it. Your writing reveals your wacky side - humorous, sassy and smart. You're living your own brand of wacky!
JJ, That's what I always thought - that there are dozens and dozens of subcultures out there in the world doing their thing. A place for everyone.
Posted by: Cynthia Morris | May 01, 2008 at 10:43 PM
Wish I had found Journey JuJu sooner. I was juried to join a 2 week professional portrait painting class in France at La Bonne Etoile, led by Leslie B. DeMille of California. I've done a wonderful flyer/concept for sponsorships and come up empty. Have a wonderful husband who is willing to stay here in the states for me to have this opportunity. However, I went last August to study with Ann Templeton...on a wacky whim, and finances have not improved since last time. Send some good energy my way...I need to leave on May 17!
vicki-lou
Posted by: vicki-lou | May 02, 2008 at 04:52 PM