Welcome to the waning days of August that take us right into Labor Day weekend. It's a pause—in many ways—the last of the summer. So let's take a moment or two or three and reset before we dive into the last third of the year and all the "planning" that it can entail.

We all know that energy: the return to the routine; the increase of appointments and obligations; the way we can fill our calendars to the brim; and the heightened fuss of when things don't go the way they're "supposed" to. 

However, when we're willing to step back and consider the broad strokes of a moment, when something or someone derails our plans, it's just life getting in the way of life, isn't it?

Let's take an example. We're to meet someone at a certain time, yet despite our best intentions, we end up being late. Why? any number of reasons: we couldn't get a cab, we were stuck in traffic, someone cut in front of us in line; weather intervened; we got sidetracked, and the list could go on and on…

And yet, what these all have in common is the reminder that we're not really in control of our lives, are we? Yes—we make plans, book dates and meetings, look forward a particular event, and they all fall under the sway of whatever is going on in life—not just ours—in the moment.

Explanations of why we're late are just variations on a theme. The details matter little.  Our "best laid plans" or intentions or wishes can offer the illusion of a framework for us as we move through our days. 

Ultimately, though, life has a life of its own and we are not in charge.

How do you respond when you find "Life In The Way…"? (2:08)?