I’m keeping it short today, but hoping you’ll not skip quickly over this thought-provoking quote:
“May you live all the days of your life.” — Jonathan Swift
Here are three ways I try to find vitality in my life:
1) I try to absorb as much energy as I’m releasing. Today, I moved through several afternoon temper tantrums with as much patience as I could muster, but by day’s end, I had to collapse on the bed for a while to get back what had been taken. Tomorrow, I’m going to enjoy every moment of my swim at the Y to replenish my emotional reserves.
2) Spend as much time listening and observing as talking and sharing. Okay, I’ll admit, sometimes I fall short on this one, but when I’m off, I can feel it. I’ve also recommitted myself to listening to my kids more intently, and not just doing the “uh-huh” and “ahh” while I’m immersed in something else “more important.”
3) Glass half full. The easiest way to fail at this one is to look at others and wish we had what they have. We might look at other parents and believe they’ve got it all figured out (looks are deceiving) or compare our kids to those of others who seem more together. When I resist the temptation to focus on what I don’t have, and instead look to every little blessing I’ve been offered, I am at my happiest and most vibrant.
Your turn!
I’m in complete agreement. I once wrote a post about the unspoken competition amongst our friends and family. Feeling blessed for what we are given and what we work towards is how I find peace Feeling happiness for others is vital to that peace. It took me a while; I must admit, but when I finally figured out this tough lesson, a true sense of happiness warmed my soul. Life is about family and friendship; not money and objects.
On a completely separate subject, can you tell me the difference between comma’s, semi-colon’s and dashes (not to mention colon’s)? I should know, I was an English major for goodness sake, but it’s escaping me lately, and I loathe using incorrect punctuation.
Your post regarding Steve was beautiful, and I’m so thankful you shared it. I loved the article, and thought that your quotes about Emilie were right on the mark.
Hope to see you soon.
God Bless,
Marie
I loved this one! I do try, some days much more successfully than others, to cultivate an attitude of gratitude. (Oh God, that rhymes horribly. I didn’t mean it to!!!)
Thanks for these great reminders. I am really trying to be more of a glass-half-full kind of person these days, especially in light of some professional issues that are sapping all my energy and enthusiasm. Last night, when I was exhausted and laying on the couch with Chiara, I was really trying to soak up the reality that I am very blessed despite the stuff that gets me down. I’m also finding, as I get older, how much more I need silence. I am a champion talker, but I’m noticing that more and more I prefer to be listening. Thanks again, Roxane for your post. It was just what I needed this morning.