Third Story With Skylights

“There are first-story people, second-story people and third-story people with skylights.” This is my paraphrase of a quote that I read more than 30 years ago. I believe it was in a religion course in college when I became familiar with this idea. It literally changed me.

First-story people are everywhere. They are one-dimensional. They do not delve into the depths of the human spirit. They reside on the surface of life, skimming across lessons and weaving in between deep connections. First story people are shallow and wanting. They do not think deeply or perceive truths. One does not want to be a first story person.

Second-story people are those folks who possess a bit more substance. They may recognize life's treasures but they do not know how to grasp its trinkets and hold on to them. Lessons whiz past their heads--some are caught while many zip by unnoticed. Connections are temporal. These folks get a little more out of life than do the first-story people, but not much.

Third-story people with skylights are the ones who really 'get' life. They exist in that visceral sweet spot where they can either take or leave just about anything and be fine. They are not attached to the earth the way others are. They have a wisdom that allows them to be free from judgment – their own as well as that of others'. Third-story people may live in that enlightened paradise where they just might prefer being alone with a dog than in a room full of people. Conversely, they may be so comfortable around any crowd that they are able to minster to others' needs while having almost no needs of their own. Third-story people THINK. They put thought into their existence. They float above the every day ho hums and tiny pecking problems. They are able to separate themselves from the items and cares of this world and see all as one.

When I read that quote so many years ago, I knew I was a third-story person (at least in the making...). I also knew that anyone I ever hoped to have a relationship with would also have to be third-story person. Over the course of my lifetime, I have  come to realize that all of my deep friendships are with others who live on the same story as me and look out those same skylights. I don't claim to be the ideal model of higher plane existence nor do I claim to be evolved to the point of perfection--only to strive for it.  But, I know where I do not live--and I do not live on the first or second-story.  

What story do you hail from? I bet it is the third as you are reading this blog! I hope it is, because I believe, in my heart, it is a place we should all call home.


Take Good Care Today.