There is more to life than increasing its speed. Mahatma Ghandi

How well you handle the closing one year and the beginning of another depends in part on your frame of mind. For many, New Year's Eve evokes memories of the good times experienced through the year, while others dwell on all the bad that has happened. I like to think I am the former. I like to look at how far I've come and how much I have accomplished  - but that is only part of the appeal of New Year's Eve.

Before me lies an open book ready to be written in - a chance to start anew, to make positive changes and choose how I will spend my time. In the words of Mahatma Ghandi, "There is more to life than increasing it's speed."

This year, I intend to be ever mindful of the use of my time. Not because I'm afraid of running out - but because time is too valuable to squander. This year, I will guard my time and spend more time on the things that really matter and less on the mind-sucking activities that lead me nowhere.

This year, I will slow down and work steadfastly toward my goals and dreams without the distractions of events and activities that lead me down other paths.

Today, I am grateful for the completion of another year, for all that I have accomplished in 2011 and for the opportunities 2012 will bring. I am grateful for the courage and vision to follow my dreams - even when the world around me looks bleak. 

I am grateful for a warm home that keeps me safe, for soft pillows on which to rest my head, and for socks. I am grateful for the droning snore of the dog, the gentle purr of the cat, and for the twitter of birds as they stop for food to eat. 

I am grateful for family and friends who never cease to amaze me, for neighbors who make me feel safe, and for strangers who paths I cross. 

I am grateful for writers who share their view of the world, for artists who capture the essence of life, and musicians who create for the soul. 

I am grateful for the beauty of the earth, the rays of sun as it breaches the horizon, and starlight that punctuates the night sky. 

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop and share my day. May you always remember, "There is more to life than increasing its speed," as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

Happiness is not a state to arrive at, but a manner of traveling. Margaret Lee Runbeck

If you are in the habit of thinking that you will be happy when you have more money - or when you reach your goals - and hold onto the belief that the circumstances of your life control your happiness, it's time to stop. Sure circumstances of your life may create momentary happiness - but that kind of happiness is always dependent on the outside world and can be torn away at a moment's notice. True happiness comes from inside you and doesn't depend on the circumstances of your life.

One way - and many may argue it is the only way - to find happiness in your life is by taking stock of your blessings and expressing sincere gratitude for them. Strive today to cultivate true happiness by expressing your gratitude for the good things in your life as you work to reach your goals.

Today, I am grateful for the brilliance of the sun as it casts its rays across the frozen landscape, for heat and hot water that bring comfort to my home, and for sheltered nooks that provide warmth and safety to the animals of the forest.

I am grateful for steaming coffee that fragrances the air, for the flickering flame of the pellet stove that adds warmth and comfort to the home, and for shelves of books that secret away their wisdom in silence.

I am grateful for Sage, my cat, who follows me where ever I go, nipping at plants, sleeping in the sun, and purring me a good night song each night.

I am grateful for family to share my world, for friends who lighten the load, and strangers who reach out their hand.

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop and share my day. May you cultivate the art of finding true happiness as you go forward in the direction of your dreams. 

 

 

 

In the hopes of reaching the moon men fail to see the flowers that blossom at their feet. Albert Schweitzer

Often we become so focused on reaching our goals, that we forget to enjoy the journey. Guard against becoming so single minded that your goals and dreams take over your life and prevent you from experiencing what life has to offer along the way. Although it is necessary to keep you eyes on your goal and work steadfastly in the direction of your dreams, life is meant to be lived.

Take time today to enjoy the people and things around you and appreciate them for the joy they bring.

Today, I am grateful for the new fallen snow that envelops my world in white, for the soft glow of sunrise as the sun's rays try to penetrate the clouds, and for the mighty trees laden with snow. I am grateful for the muffled sounds of cars in the distance, for the quiet that descends when snow encases the world, and for a warm cozy home that protects me from the storm.

I am grateful for opportunities that come my way, for hope of a bright future, and for family to share my journey. I am grateful for my flower garden as it settles down for a long winter's rest, for the nearest of Christmas, and twinkling lights to light the storm.

I am grateful for healthy food to fuel the body, for hot coffee to warm to warm the soul, and for the fragrance of fresh-baked bread. I am grateful for lavender whose fragrance lulls me to sleep, for the scent of citrus to invigorate and inspire, and delicate roses that hold summer in their scent.

I am grateful for eyes to see, ears to hear, and a heart to feel.

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you take the time to see the flowers at your feet as your strive to reach the moon as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts; therefore guard accordingly. Marcus Aurelius

So many of us get into the habit of greeting the world with a running commentary of the lack in our lives that we forget to take stock of what we have, and get sucked into believing that we are unhappy due to the circumstances in our lives. We are so eager to believe that the world controls our lives that we simply forget to look to our contributions to our own unhappy circumstances.

Strive today to improve the quality of your thoughts that you may learn to experience joy in your life - regardless of the circumstances around you. As you improve your thoughts and begin to focus on the positive in your life, circumstances begin to change.

When difficulties arise - and they sometimes will - lift yourself above them by training your thoughts to focus on the the blessings in your life.

Today, I am grateful for lazy Saturday mornings, for French vanilla creamer in my coffee, and for clean blank pages on which to write. I am thankful for computers that make my life easier, for typewriters who set the stage, and for pen and paper that still tempts writers when inspiration comes.

I am grateful for the morning sun that I know lurks behind the clouds, for clean white snow that lingers on the ground, and for evergreens that transform into wreaths.

I am grateful for time as it stretches before me, for the wisdom to use it well, and for quiet moments that nourish the soul.

I am grateful for winter storms that will envelop my world in a quiet beauty, for rolling hills, and towering trees who withstand the passage of time.

I am grateful for family that I hold dear, for friends who lighten the load, and for strangers who share a willing smile. 

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. Strive to improve the quality of your thoughts today, that you may experience happiness and joy as you go forward in the direction of your dreams. 

 

 

One who understands much displays a greater simplicity of character than one who understands little. Alexander Chase

As Christmas approaches, many of us become so involved in doing all the things we think we need to do to make it through the season that we forget what pleasure simplicity brings. The smell of the tree, the twinkle of lights and mounds of new fallen snow that evoke memories of Christmas long ago are what bring me pleasure at Christmas. Yet, somehow I get get caught up in the hustle and bustle and forget to take the time to simply enjoy the season.


This year, my daughter suggested that we put up the tree early - of course, by early I mean the first of December. Instead of adding all the ornaments now, we opted to just add lights and enjoy them for a spell. It's not that we don't enjoy the ornaments. We do - but a simple tree with lights evokes a quiet charm that speaks to the soul. Later we will add the ornaments and enjoy the excitement of a fully decorated tree.


I strive to live my life with the same simplicity, that I may enjoy what it has to offer without the trappings of what the world expects of me. It isn't always easy, as I too, get caught up in the ways of the world around me. Today, I will take time to enjoy the simple things as I work my way toward my goals.


For today, strive to enjoy the journey as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

Today, I am grateful for snoring dogs and purring cats, for white picket fences, and for rocks that hold the history of the earth. I am grateful for the sound of rain that brings peace to the world, the anticipation of the first blanket of snow and for Christmas lights that twinkle in the night.

I am grateful for candles that flicker, for houseplants that grow amid the winter, and for the crow cawing in the distance. I am grateful for cold winter nights and warm summer days for that add variety to life.

I am grateful to family and friends who have made me who I am, for parents who have long since passed but live on memory, and for children.

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you strive to enjoy the simple things in life as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

We cannot direct the wind but we can adjust the sails. ~Author Unknown

It's amazing how often we make our way through life thinking that if we but change the world around us, our lives will suddenly fall into place, without considering that perhaps we need to adjust our sails. The direction we will go and the destination we will reach depends on our ability and willingness to set the course.

Consider the journey you wish to take today and instead of fighting the prevailing winds -- adjust your sails to take you in the direction you need to go.

Pay no attention to the doom and gloom preached by those around you, as they are merely a reflection of the winds that blow. Take action today and harness the power of the wind to fuel your journey to a bright and prosperous future.

Today, I am grateful for bright winter sun, blue skies and white clouds that do not yet threaten snow. I am grateful for the glint of color as sunlight glistens off the frozen landscape, for the tinkle of my wind chimes, and for the blue jay who calls in the silent air. 

I am grateful for new opportunities yet to come my way, for a clear sound mind to start my day, and for the joy of beginning another December awaiting the arrival of Christmas. What a glorious season to close out the year! 

I am grateful for family and friends, for good health, and for the ability to feel joy in the softness of the wind or the beauty of the night. I am grateful for the freedom to choose which path I shall follow, for the insight to make good choices, and for the energy to sustain my efforts. 

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you adjust your sails as necessary today, as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

The secret of getting ahead is getting started. Mark Twain

For many of us the problem does not lie in accomplishing the task at hand, but it getting started in the first place. Oh, we may justify our reluctance by saying the time isn't right, we aren't prepared or that the world is not ready for us yet. The truth is: we are lying to ourselves.

To reach our dreams and goals, we must get down to the business of starting. Yesterday, I posted about my experience of wallowing in a bit of self pity and being jousted out of bed with a voice that seemed to come from nowhere and everywhere, exhorting me me to "get out that bed!"  You can read about that in yesterday's post. The important part is: I did get out of bed -- and I got started.

For me, the dream is to secure paying work writing about the things I love. Right now, that is wrought with challenges for many online writers. If you are writer, you already understand -- if you are not, suffice it to say that the face of online writing is changing, forcing writers to change as well.

Once I got down to the business of starting by making a few simple contacts, amazing things began to happen. Interesting work appeared when I least expected it.

If you, like many of us, are still spending your time mulling over your dreams, it is time to get started. Step out in faith -- you may find pleasant surprises where you least expect them.

Today, I am grateful for new-found work, for the courage to step out on foreign land and the energy to pursue my dreams. I am grateful for opportunities yet to come my way, for the ability to touch the lives of others and for those who have helped me along the way. 

I am grateful for the rain that washes the world clean, for sound of raindrops that will lull me to sleep and for warm, fall weather that delays the winter cold. 

I am grateful for good books to read, cozy slipper to wear and plants that breathe life into my room. I am grateful for music to soothe the soul, candles to scent the air and cool water to quench my thirst. 

I am grateful for family and friends without who my life would be incomplete. 

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you summon up the courage to start today -- as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?

Keeping the faith is easy when all things work together as they should, but for many of us, when things get difficult, our faith begins to waiver. I've been waivering lately. Not because I don't have faith, exactly --  but because I am not sure of the direction I should go. 


As many of you know, I am a writer by trade. Recent situations have arisen where my main source of writing income has suddenly dwindled. This has forced me outside my comfortable bubble in search of meaningful and profitable work. 


I tell you all this, not because I want your sympathy -- but because it leads me to today's quote. 


After yet another blow to my livelihood as a writer -- which I won't go into here -- I checked my mail to see if I had any responses from the many leads I have followed. In frustration over the empty mailbox and the lack of immediate prospects, I settled myself down for a nap. 


When I awoke, I didn't jump out of bed to get to work, but instead mumbled "What's the use?" and turned my face to the wall.


Suddenly -- out of nowhere -- the phrase "Oh ye of little faith, get out of that bed." echoed through my thoughts. 


Needless to say, I obeyed. I'm not sure what is in store for me or the direction my life as a writer will take -- but I am sure that something wonderful awaits me right around the corner.


May you cultivate faith today as you strive to reach your dreams and goals.

Today, I am grateful for the starry sky, the brilliant moon and for the soft rustle of wind in the trees. I am grateful for the melody of my wind chimes, a lone dog barking in the distance and the soft damp air. 

I am grateful for my daughter as she works tirelessly on her studies knowing that they are the key to where she wants to go, for my son who has grown into a responsible and caring adult and my husband who is always there to support me. 

I am grateful for brothers and sisters who helped make me who I am, for parents who built my foundation and for friends along the way who have helped determine my path. 

I am grateful for opportunity to touch the lives of others with my words, for the luxury of a warm home, clean clothes and healthy food to eat. 

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you have the faith of a mustard seed, today  -- as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

You cannot plough a field by turning it over in your mind. Author Unknown

So often, we spend so much time thinking about what we are going to do that we never accomplish the things we want in life. Somehow, we think that everything will fall in place -- if only we wait for the right time. But the right time never comes, because we have not prepared the field for our dreams to grow.

The gardener doesn't wait until the conditions are perfect for growing and then plant a seed. The gardener knows he must prepare the soil and isn't afraid to get his hands dirty to do it. Be like the gardener, today, and begin preparing the soil for your dreams to flourish and grow.

Consider your dreams today and go about the business of making them come true. Continually turning them over in your mind will not bring them to pass. It takes action. Act.

Today, I am grateful for the new fallen snow that envelopes the world, for the sound of birds as they seek shelter, for excited dogs who prance in the snow and for children who scurry to find last year's mittens. 

I am grateful for the big white flakes that swirl and dance in the wind, for snow-laden trees who bow down to its beauty and the glorious preview of another winter to come. 

I am grateful for the excitement in the air, for a cozy warm home and for my office window that allows me to watch the gentle storm. I am grateful for hot coffee and the gentle chickadee that stops by for a bite to eat. I am grateful for changing of seasons as it tells me life will go on as it should. 

I am grateful for family, for friends and for pets that enrich our lives. I am grateful for days off that refuel the soul, for abundant work that allows me to meet my family's needs and for the ability to recognize new opportunities when they come may way. 

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May your day be filled with joy as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

"The trouble with not having a goal is that you can spend your life running up and down the field and never scoring." — Bill Copeland

How often we go through life dreaming of something more -- something better -- without any clue as to what that something more is. Yet, we squander time striving for the seeming impossible simply because we haven't taken the time or energy to define what that something more is.

 Knowing the right path to take to reach your destination requires knowing where you want to go. Strive today to refine your goals and dreams into something more than the vague notion that you want to find success. Take the time to define what success means to you.

Many find themselves without adequate work to meet the demands of their everyday lives -- particularly now when jobs seem to be few and far between. They set on on the journey to "find work" without any notion of what that work might be.

If you, like many of us, find yourself in the position where you must step outside your comfort zone, take some time to consider what you want and need. Setting goals defines the direction you must go.

Today, I am grateful for a warm, cozy home, the aroma of fresh-baked bread and wind chimes that play music for the soul. I am grateful for the calm, still air that envelopes the world, the sound of rain as it falls softly in the night, and the first rays of morning light. 

I am grateful for the ocean that teems with life, the forest that provides homes to weary moose and deer and for trees that stand strong throughout the seasons.

I am grateful for my family, for neighbors and for doctors who dedicate their lives to helping others. I am grateful for firemen who brave the raging fire to rescue those in need, for students who work long and hard to achieve their goals, and for teachers who show them the way. 

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you take time to refine your goals today and find much success as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

“When you have come to the edge Of all light that you know And are about to drop off into the darkness Of the unknown, Faith is knowing One of two things will happen: There will be something solid to stand on or You will be taught to fly” ~ Patrick Overton

Many of us go through life with the mindset that obstacles in our way prevent us from achieving our dreams. Instead of forging forward with faith in ourselves and the guiding hand that created us, we turn back if we think the way is blocked.

Cultivate faith today. Have faith that there are no obstacles you cannot overcome. It may require work and thinking outside the box, but you already have everything you need to overcome them. Faith in yourself, faith in your abilities and faith in a higher power -- whether you prefer to call it the Universe or the Almighty God -- will carry you through.

Today, I am grateful for fellow writers who are always willing to share what they have learned, for readers who seek out the information I share and for publishers who make it possible for me to share my thoughts and skills with the world. 

I am grateful for sunshine, brightly-colored foliage and the awe-inspiring transition into fall. I am grateful for the invigorating fragrance of sheets dried on the clothesline, for fluffy pillows that cradle me in rest and for  my cat that purrs me to sleep. 

I am grateful for bright toadstools on the forest floor, a carpet of moss to cushion my feet and rocks that serve as a seat for weary travelers. I am grateful for babbling brooks that twist and turn making their way over the terrain, for darting fish who call it their home and for the giant woodpecker that swoops from tree to tree. 

I am grateful to be blessed with a family that I hold dear, for my children who make me proud and a spouse that is always there. I am grateful for brothers and sisters who have taught me how to be who I am, for the grandparents I never knew and for parents who have gone before me. 

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you cultivate the faith to overcome your obstacles today, as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

Change always comes bearing gifts. ~Price Pritchett

Today

Recently, I have encountered some challenging events that require me to step outside of my professional bubble and seek out new writing opportunities. Those of you who are writers, undoubtedly understand how intimidating the process can be. Those of you who aren't, let's just say it requires getting out of your pjs and taking action to find your place in the ever-changing world of writing. But, that's not the focus of my post.

Today's focus is change -- more specifically the changes that positive thinking, visualizing your goals and dreams, and expressing your gratitude can make in your life. 

It can be difficult to see the changes wrought in your life because they often happen gradually. It's hard to identify what we cannot see or quantify with "evidence." Sometimes, we are offered glimpses into those changes. 

While evaluating my progress, I stumbled upon a picture of myself taken just before I began the journey to reach my dreams. I didn't consciously make an effort to change my appearance and didn't participate in any life-altering lifestyle changes other than improving my outlook on life and cultivating a positive attitude. I'd like to share with you those two pics today so you can see for yourself that changes are being wrought in your life, even when you think progress is slow or you are unable to see your progress.

Today

Before 

Today, I am grateful for new opportunities I have yet to recognize, for a clear sound mind, a healthy body, and the desire to succeed. I am grateful for insight and wisdom, the passion to develop my craft, and the vision to light the way. 

I am grateful for stars that linger into dawn, for moonlight to light the night, and for the rays of sun across the frosted earth. I am grateful for the glorious moose standing proud in the morning light, for the sound scurrying leaves in the brisk fall wind, and for pine cones. 

I am grateful for family and friends who fill my world, for children everywhere as they find their way in the world, and the elderly who chose to share their wisdom. I am grateful for strangers who offer a smile, for long-lost friends who once shared my life, and for those who have yet to enter my life. 

I am grateful for ears that hear, eyes that see, and a heart that beats.  

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you embrace the positive changes in your life as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

                                                                                                         

Dream and give yourself permission to envision a You that you choose to be. Joy Page

Many of us fall short of what we want in life, not because we are not capable, but because we lack the courage to give ourselves permission to succeed. Cultivate the courage to dream big and give yourself permission to reach those dreams, today.

Know that what lies in you is greater than the ways of the world. It is bigger than the petty thoughts of those who want to prevent your success. It is not limited by what someone else says or does or believes. They are not your enemy -- although it may seem like they are at times. Your enemy -- like your success -- lies within. Your enemy is your inability to believe in yourself enough to grant yourself permission to succeed.

Today, I am grateful for rain and the heavy musky scent of fall. I am grateful for fallen leaves and pine needles that blanket my yard in carpet of gold. I am grateful for pine cones that bring visions of Christmas in its glorious blanket of snow.  

I am grateful for the miraculous cycle of the seasons that brings beauty at every turn, for the grace of summer folding silently into fall and for the promise of winter that envelops my world in soft blankets of white. 

I am grateful for the blue jay that cries out to announce the coming rain, for the chick-a-dee that flits from tree to tree never tiring of his cheerful song, and for the purple finch who wears his red coat despite his name. 

I am grateful for family and friends and the house I call my home. I am grateful for those who lend a helping hand when they see a need, for the fruit of earth that fuels our bodies and for coffee to start my day. 

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you cultivate the courage to dream big and give yourself permission to succeed as you go forward in the direction of your dreams. 

We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures. ~Thornton Wilder

If you are like most people, you probably take the little things in your life for granted. Not because you don't appreciate them, and not because they aren't important, but because they've always been there and you have come to see them as "normal" parts of your life. Deborah Norville refers to it as Thank you Power in her book entitled Thank You Power, others refer to it a gratitude and still others call it thanking God--but it all boils down to being thankful and showing appreciation for the good things in our lives.

The simple act of expressing your gratitude releases tremendous power in your life as it forces you to shift your focus from what you do not have to what you already have in your life. It's normal (and even desired) to wish for bigger and better things for yourself and your family, but how you do that matters.

What we focus our attention on determines the results we reap. Because the human mind works to bring about the images we feed it, focusing on the lack in our lives often magnifies the lack. When we focus on the things we do not want in our lives, such as financial difficulties, health problems or struggling relationships, our mind becomes stayed on those and works diligently to create the image we have provided.

The trick, of course, is to feed the brain images of what we want in our lives. Cultivating the habit of taking a stock of your blessings is a powerful way to do just that. Not only does it set the stage of the things that give meaning and value to your life, according to an article published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology (2001) it improves the immune system, helps you handle stress and may extend your life up to 10 years. Other studies indicate that positive thinking and gratitude improve your attention span, promote creativity and expand your ability to think in divergent ways.

Get into the habit of expressing your gratitude or saying thank-you for those things in your life that bring your joy and you will soon find yourself feeling better about yourself and better able to tackle any obstacles that loom in your way to realizing your dreams.

Today, I am grateful for my cat that lies calmly in the morning sun while I work, for snoring dogs and the brilliant blue of the sky. I am grateful for wind chimes that make music in the breeze, for blades of grass that blanket the lawn and for little dirt roads that meander out of sight.

I am grateful for sunflowers that stand tall and strong, for wood vines that creep along the fence and for birds that sing. I am grateful for good books to read, for the echo of laughter and the sound of the loon.

I am grateful for family that keeps me strong, for friends who teach me much and for strangers that I may never meet but who touch my life in indiscernible ways. 

And, I am grateful for you dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you cultivate the art of expressing your gratitude as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

"When we are no longer able to change a situation... We are challenged to change ourselves" ~ VIKTOR FRANKL

Many of us spend our days looking to others and thinking if only "they" would change, my life would be better, without realizing that life isn't about changing others to fit our needs. If it seems that those around you are in need of drastic change, consider the fact that it might be you that needs the change, not them.

Refusing to accept your part in creating the conditions of your life is no different than refusing to change to clock from daylight savings time to standard time and then lamenting the fact that those around you are never on time.

So often, I hear others lamenting the fact that the world around them is filled with ungrateful, spiteful people who work diligently to make "their" life miserable--yet, never realizing that their dissatisfaction with others is merely a reflection of their inner selves.

If it seems that those around you are unappreciative or lack the compassion you desire in life, try expressing appreciation and compassion in your own life. You may be surprised by how much others appear to change.

Today, I am grateful for the soft rays of morning sun, for fresh clean air to breathe, and for the dew that sparkles on the grass. I am grateful for the hoot of the owl, the dance of leaves in the breeze, and soft, cool grass against bare feet. I am grateful for the brilliant sunsets, proud tall mountains and flowing fields of hay.

I am grateful for healthy food to eat, for clean water to drink and for caterpillars who creep along the garden wall. I am grateful for the sound of the lone dog's bark in the distance, for wispy smoke from wood stoves that settles heavy in the air, and the smell of leaves that forewarns of fall. 

I am grateful for my family who makes me proud, for a husband who supports my work and children who have grown strong and always stand for what they know is right. I am grateful for bothers and sisters, for my parents who have gone before me and for extended family that makes me who I am today.

I am grateful for the people in my life that challenge my thinking, for those who lend a helping hand and those who serve as examples sharing their goodness and kindness with the world. I am grateful for artists who capture life's beauty, for musicians who touch the soul and for writers who bring the word to life.

And, I am grateful to you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you be the change that is needed in your life as you go forward in the direction of your dreams. 

"To reach a port, we must sail - sail, not tie at anchor - sail, not drift." -- FRANKLIN DELANO ROOSEVELT

So many times, we set our sights on a destination and then sit ourselves down with the expectation that we will somehow reach it without even setting the sails for that direction. We cast our hopes and dreams to the wind, thinking that the wind itself will power our path--never entertaining the thought that in order to sail we must harness its power.

Cultivate the habit of setting your sails. You may not always be able to determine the direction of the wind, but a skilled sailor knows how to use it to his advantage. Be a sailor today, as you determine the direction you shall go.

Today, I am grateful for the approach of fall, the smell of leaves and the cooling of air. I am grateful for fall winds, sunflowers and the tiny hummingbird that gathers energy for its long flight. I am grateful for fresh, clean rain; for white, puffy clouds and for the energy that only fall brings.

I am grateful for children as they head off to school, for teachers who provide their care and parents who adapt to the seasonal changes in their lifestyle. I am grateful for the renewed expectations of another school year, for eager learners and for knowledge available to our children.

I am grateful for family and friends who bring me joy, for strangers who challenge my thinking and for  writers who share their knowledge via the written word.

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you cultivate the habit of setting your sails to harvest the power of the winds to lead you in the direction of your dreams.

"You can't depend on your eyes when your imagination is out of focus." -- MARK TWAIN

Often in life we think we know what lies before us. As humans we are accustomed to seeing what we already believe to be true. As Marl Twain points out, if you imagination is out of focus, what you see may be too.

A long time ago, I dealt with a young man who had overheard his father's conversation on the phone. As the father spoke, unaware that the son was listening from another room, he made a reference to a name. Now, the son knew someone with this name, and quickly assumed the father was talking about his friend. The conversation continued and because of this one assumption, the young man built up an elaborate story in his head to accommodate the various parts of the conversation. He was sure his father was talking about him and his friend and grew angrier by the moment at the things he imagined his father was saying about them. But he kept silent.

Some weeks later the son he revealed his beliefs in a fit of anger.It was then that the father became aware of this simple misunderstanding. The son, of course, would have nothing to do with his father's explanation. He knew what he heard and he was unable to see outside himself long enough to consider alternate explanations. He had relived his false assumptions so many times that no other explanation would do. This one incident colored their relationship and determined the path the young man would take in the future. Yet, his imagination was out of focus and what he saw (heard) was too.

How like this young man we are sometimes as we hold fast to the things we believe are true, and think that our choices are limited to only what we see at the moment. 

Strive to put your imagination in focus today, so that you may see the many opportunities before you as you go forward to reach your goals.

Today, I am grateful for sunny skies, gentle breezes and the smell of impending fall. I am grateful for mums that bring bright color in the last leg of summer, for hummingbirds that get their fill in the summer sun, and for cats that laze in the summer rays.

I am grateful for family and friends who I hold dear, for good books, and the music of the crickets into the night.

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you strive to keep your imagination in focus, as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

Life is full of obstacle illusions. ~Grant Frazier

As human beings we become so accustomed to seeing the things that stand in our way, that we forget there is always a way around them. Instead of looking for another way, we often give up and assume that our goals and dreams cannot be met. But, as Grant Frazier cleverly points out: that is often an illusion.

Consider the obstacles in your path today and get in the habit of seeing them as a mere illusion. There are many paths to your future, and many trails to your dreams. It is up to you to find them.

Today, I am grateful for the insight and wisdom to defeat seeming obstacles in my way, for the courage to press forward, even when it seems like there is no way to reach my goals. I am grateful for marvelous power of the human mind, for the ability to use that mind to see beyond the obvious, and for the drive to succeed.


I am grateful for summer rain that quenches my garden's thirst, for flowers that awake covered in dew, and for sunshine that scatters in an array of color as it touches raindrops on the grass.


I am grateful for music of the wind as it tickles the trees, for the call of the owl in the wee hours of dawn, and for stars that shine brightly under the cover of darkness.


I am grateful for family that I hold dear, for friends that share my life, and for children not yet born--who will surely change our world.


And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you cultivate the habit of recognizing obstacles as mere illusions today as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

“How you think about a problem is more important than the problem itself. So always think positively.” - Norman Vincent Peale

Seven Day Mental Diet Challenge Day Five

It always amazes me that it is our thinking that defines the challenges we face in life, not the actual circumstances. We are so accustomed to believing that the world around us defines our life -- yet, all the great thinkers repeatedly tell us it it simply isn't so.

Strive to think outside the box today and look at your problems and challenges in a new light. There is nothing so great that it cannot be overcome by a change in perspective and the will to succeed.

Today, I am grateful for the cool morning breeze to start my day, for the cheery robin who welcomes another day and for hummingbirds that dart here and there in search of sweet nectar. I am grateful for green grass, for growing vegetables and flowers.

I am grateful for a clear sound mind, a healthy energetic body and for insight as I begin my day. I am grateful for the mighty sun, for the glorious moon and for dancing leaves that flutter in the breeze. I am grateful for color and music and fragrance.

I am grateful for family, for friends and for polar bears.

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you strive to think about your problems in new ways that you may overcome seeming obstacles as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

Each day comes bearing its own gifts. Untie the ribbons" -- RUTH ANN SCHABACKER

Day Four: Seven Day Mental Challenge Diet

Sometimes, that which is right before us is the most difficult to see. What may seem dull and ordinary may contain the key to your success, if you but take the time to look. Strive to see life's gifts today. Go ahead, untie some bows -- you may be surprised at what you may find right before your eyes.

I've been reading The Secret of Mental Magic by Vernon Howard. In his book, Howard carefully explains that our thoughts are often clouded by our "illusions" of the way life is or the way we are. These images have been created by our interactions with the world, but they are not all accurate. That little voice that whispers, "I'm not good enough." or "I'm not smart enough." is simply the result of our faulty beliefs about ourselves and our world. 

In this book, Howard explains that we have the power to overcome those self-defeating thoughts with four simple words. "I need not obey." We all have within ourselves the power to simply refuse to react to self-defeating talk. We do not need to listen to that little voice that tells us what we can and cannot do. 

For today, practice being a rebel and stopping those thoughts cold with a bold, "I need not obey." Astonishing results are sure to follow.

Today, I am grateful for summer sun, white puffy clouds and butterflies. I am grateful for the vast ocean that teems with life, for the rainforest with its lush green growth and for far-away places I may only visit in my minds eye. 

I am grateful for the vastness of the Universe, for clear skies sparkling with stars, for the golden orb of the moon and for rainbows.

I am grateful for family and friends who enrich my life, for neighbors who are always there and for soldiers who keep my world safe.

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you untie the bows to find life's gifts today, as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

Always remember you are braver than you believe, you are stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.

Promise me you will always remember . . .

I thought I share a little inspiration from Christopher Robin and Pooh this morning. I've always found it such a delightfully uplifting cartoon that never fails to make me smile. Of course, my favorite is Eeyore, with his perpetual pessimistic attitude. Eeyore may be endearing as he wallows in gloom, but it seldom so with people. When we are pessimistic or negative thinkers, not only does it drag us down, it drags those we love down with us, too.

Strive today to build confidence in yourself. Focus on the things you do well and celebrate your unique  talents and skills. Know that within you lies the ability to rise above the circumstances, to stretch beyond what you always thought possible and to live a life filled with joy and accomplishments.

I've been thinking a lot about Norman Vincent Peale's words in  Enthusiasm Makes the Difference lately. This little book is filled with quotes and inspiration, but the one that sticks with me today is his exhortation for us to "Stand tall, think tall and act tall." 


So often, we spend our days with our heads held low so our gaze falls on the ground around us. We are so willing to let the circumstances of our lives dictate what we think, what we wish for and what we do. We obligingly let the world tell us who we are and where we can go. When we stand tall, we lift up our gaze and see beyond what is at our feet and open up a world of possibilities. Practice standing and thinking tall today.

 

Today, I am grateful for quiet moments that envelope my world in peace, for noisy laughter that lifts up the soul and for the sounds of nature that awaken me at dawn. I am grateful for fresh air, clean water and healthy food to eat.  

I am grateful for hands to touch, for legs to walk and for a heart that beats. I am grateful for eyes that see beyond the horizon, for the ability to dream and for the knowledge that dreams do come true. 

I am grateful for family that has always been the center of my life, for friends who share their worlds with me and for the multitude of people who have made me what I am today. I am grateful to my parents, who have long since passed, who taught me how to make my way in the world.  

I am grateful for my children who have grown into amazing human beings who always make me proud. I am grateful for my husband who always weathers the storms and reminds me that everything will be okay. 

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop and share my day. In the words of Christopher Robin: "Always remember you are braver than you believe, you are stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

You may like these Vinyl Wall Quotes and Signs:

Seven Day Mental Diet Challenge Day One Revisited

"Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently." ~Henry Ford~

Well, folks, I'm afraid I need to start back at Day One. Not because I went on a rampage spouting negative thoughts, and not because I've been beating myself up with negative self-talk. No, it's not that simple.

You see, I visited the dentist yesterday to have a tooth removed. I entered with a positive attitude, but somewhere along the way I let it slip away. Once I sat in that dentist chair, memories of several bad experiences (all involving pain) overwhelmed me. I tried watching the ducks in the little pond outside. I tried watching the clouds in the sky. I even tried deep breathing -- but despite my efforts, I found myself envisioning impending doom. Something bad was going to happen to me and I knew it.

Even as I ruminated over the situation, I knew that I was being irrational. I thought of you all and knew I'd have to make this post and admit that I let negative thoughts overcome me. I imagined your reactions to my weakness and that started me down another path I didn't want to take.

I'll be honest, I thought about lying. I thought about ignoring the whole episode and posting a uplifting message of how wonderful life is. But, I couldn't do it. It wouldn't be right. I owe you more than that.

So, here I am Day One Mental Diet Challenge Revisited, and I'm ready to start from the beginning again. It's not so bad, really. I have few days of practice to rely on and I've identified some of my pitfalls. As Henry Ford said, "Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently." 

Today, I am grateful for cool, dry air that refreshes the soul, for leaves that rustle in the wind and for flowers that brighten the Earth. I am grateful for rich, dark soil that teems with life, for moss-covered glades and trees. 

I am grateful for an honest day's work, for a clear, sound mind and the promise of a bright new day. I am grateful for starting anew in my quest to nurture the positive and banish the negative. 

I am grateful for family and friends who I hold dear, for children who play in the summer sun and for the elderly who still have much to share.

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May your journey is light as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

Seven Day Mental Diet Challenge Day Two

For your inspiration!

Some of you may have noticed that I didn't update last night. That would be because my Internet Service Provider was down due to thunder storms in the area. Did I let that throw me into a tailspin of negative thinking? Almost, but I caught myself in time, grabbed a good book and headed out in my garden to read.

You've probably noticed I spend a lot of time in my garden. There is a good reason for that. Being close to nature brings out positive thoughts. Just breathing in the scents and taking in the sights lifts me up and brings me peace. When negative moods strike, you'll find me seeking solace in my garden.

Day two was a bit more difficult than day one. Not because I was less prepared, but mostly because mother nature decided to turn up the heat in my neck of the woods. You see, normally I don't do well in the heat, and I was going to tell you point blank that "I don't do well in the heat." But I caught myself, again and changed it to normally. Why? Because it is just another example of negative self-talk that prevents me from reaching my goals.

Yesterday, I found myself resisting the urge to make negative comments, that I might have classified as being honest before I started the 7 day mental challenge. Nothing big or earth shattering, but still they were there and normally I would have verbalized them.

By the end of Day Two, I was feeling pretty good about myself. I hope you've found success and are feeling good about yourself, too.




  

Seven Day Mental Diet Challenge Day One Update

It may be a bit premature to celebrate a successful day one of the Seven Day Mental Diet Challenge, but I'm feeling really good about what I have accomplished today. It's not like it was one of those picture perfect days where I had nothing to do except watch old movies and drink cold drinks in front of the fan. It was an ordinary day, filled with ordinary chores and your typical ordinary mishaps. The exciting part is that I handled them all with a positive frame of mind and didn't let them ruin my day.

When thoughts of my daughter going off to college in the fall whispered quietly in my ear of how much I'd miss her, I turned them around. I thought of how much fun she will have and how I will have more time for writing when the nest is empty. I thought of sleeping in, of staying up late and reading or writing till the wee hours of dawn. I thought of how strong we would both grow in the coming years. I thought of all the good things about to happen in both our lives. I focused on the positive.

When the nozzle came off the hose and I tried to put it back on -- with the hose turned on -- I laughed at getting wet instead of calling myself stupid.

At the end of the day, when some chores were left undone, I simply made a note to do them tomorrow and resisted the urge to lecture myself for what I hadn't done.

And now, I sit in my garden, listening to the wind in the trees and the random call of a bird not yet asleep and I breathe in clean fresh air. My daisies dance in the breeze, the horizon fades slowly to yellow then white as it bids the sun goodnight and the wind chimes sing a lullaby to the world. Soft patches of blue peek through the clouds and I know that my day has been well spent.

Today, I am grateful for the wondrous world about me teeming with life. I am grateful for dragon flies that swoop gracefully through the air. I am grateful for the wind that cools the day, for a clothesline to dry my clothes and for stars. 

I am grateful for family that makes me strong, for  friends who share a laugh, and for strangers that cross my path. 

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you find success in the Seven Day Mental Diet as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

Seven Day Mental Diet Challenge Day One

Day one

For those who are joining us late, I've moved the Challenge information to its own page Seven Day Mental Diet Challenge. You can find details of the challenge and tips for success there.

So, the journey to seven consecutive days of positive thinking has begun. Nature, it seems, has joined in the challenge. The brilliant sun arose to a deep blue sky and I swear the grass is glistening a new shade of green. I am so excited to begin this journey, partially because I know that it will bring about positive changes in my thinking and in my life, but that's not the only reason. I'm excited because YOU have decided to join me. Together, we can make dramatic changes and lead more fulfilling lives.

For this morning, it seems fitting that I  leave you with the words of  Romans 12:2 "...be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind..."  for surely, that is what we are about to do.

"It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see." -- HENRY DAVID THOREAU

Beautiful Woman or Old Hag? 

Just as the eye can be fooled into seeing what it expects or wants to see, our mind attempts to interpret stimuli in a way that makes sense to our world. Sometimes, this means misinterpreting events and situations to make them fit with our expectations. If we see the world through a negative lens, this mean interpreting life events to support our already negative mindset. But, when we develop a positive frame of mind and approach life from the positive, everything changes. Suddenly, the world is a very different place that lives up to our positive expectations.

Develop the art of viewing the world through a positive lens, today. When things go wrong, and they sometimes will, resist the urge to assume the worst and quiet the inner voice that tells you all is lost. Look for the positive and keep stumbling blocks in perspective.

Today, I am grateful for summer, for growing vegetables, clear blue skies and puffy white clouds. I am grateful for the silverly sunrise and the golden rays of sunset. I am grateful for flowers in bloom, hummingbirds in flight and the promise of the moon.

I am grateful for abundant work that allows me to brighten the days of others, for a clear sound mind and light fingers that dance across the keyboard. I am grateful for opportunities that come my way, for my daughter's smooth transition to college and for the opportunities that come her way.

I am grateful for family and friends that enrich my world. For a husband who supports my work and a son who works hard to reach his goals. 

 And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you cultivate the habit of viewing the world through a positive lens, today, as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

Your imagination is your preview of life's coming attractions. Albert Einstein

Sometimes, we get so busy with the little details of our lives that we forget to dream. We become trapped in the here and now and overlook the fact that there is more than the moment to consider. When we forget to dream, when we forget that there is a world beyond our limited view, we still the power within ourselves to go beyond.

Take the time to dream, today. Refine your goals and begin the journey of working steadfastly to achieve them. Renew the mind by casting away your defeating thoughts today and filling it with positive and uplifting thoughts.

Still the voice that tells you you are not good enough, or smart enough or good looking enough to achieve your goals. You are. You always have been.

Today, I am grateful for sunny skies and singing birds. I am grateful for flowers, butterflies and trees. I am grateful for the gentle sound of the wind in as it flutters the leaves, for hummingbird that flashes in the sun and for fluffy white clouds against a rich blue sky.


I am grateful for family and friends who share the moments of my life, for neighbors and for community. I am grateful for wind chimes that bring music to the soul.


And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop and share my day. May you cultivate a spirit of imagination as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

"As a man thinketh in his heart so is he..." (Proverbs 23:7).

Many of us are accustomed to going through life without concern for our thinking. We mistakenly assume that life happens to us and that we have little control over our circumstances. Yet, the Bible tells us that " as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he ..."   How much more then are we capable of simply by focusing our thoughts in the direction we want to go?

Cultivate the habit of believing in yourself and your ability to achieve the seemingly impossible, today. Cast away doubt and fear that you may reach your potential and bring your dreams and goals to pass.

Today I am grateful for the robin that sings outside my window exhorting me to wake up and live another day. I am grateful for the sun as it peaks from behind the clouds, for lilacs about to bloom and for butterflies that float from flower to flower.


I am grateful for the gently flowing of woodland streams, for ferns that adorn the forest floor and moss that is soft and cool beneath my feet. I am grateful for the white trillium, big purple violets ad dogwood that bring beauty to the world. I am grateful for flowers, for grass and for leaves.


I am grateful for family that brings me great joy, for neighbors who are eager to lend a helping hand and for strangers that share a willing smile.


And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you cast away fear and doubt and cultivate the habit of believing in yourself today, as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

We tend to get what we expect. Norman Vincent Peale

The simple truth that our expectations set the stage for what we receive may seem too simple, too easy or too fundamental for us to believe. Many of us have been raised to think that we are but mere puppets in the game of life and that life happens to us. That simply isn't true. Our attitude towards life, the expectation with which we greet the day and our belief in something outside of ourselves makes things happen.

Greet the day with joy and expectation today that your life may be filled with abundance and peace of mind. Cultivate your dreams today that you may reach above a mundane existence and overcome obstacles in your way.

So often we greet the day with an attitude of defeat and fear, never giving thought to the power within us all to overcome and to live joyous lives. I challenge you today to lift up your thoughts, refine your dreams and expect the best to come your way.

Today, I am grateful for the generosity of others, for warm smiles and light hearts. I am grateful for helping hands that reach out to the lives of others. I am grateful for Norma Vincent Peale who has touched my heart with his wise words first in The Power of Positive Thinking and now The Amazing Results of Positive Thinking. 


I am grateful for the mighty Universe filled with beauty from the tiny flower to the vastness of space. I am grateful for sunny days, for starry skies and for summer. I am grateful for water that flows in tiny streams and mighty rivers and brings life to the earth.


I am grateful to meet the day with hope and expectation of all good things that shall come to pass, for family that shares my life and neighbors who amaze me with their generosity. I am grateful for babies that bring new life into the homes of proud parents, for pets that comfort the sad or lonely and for music that soothes the soul.


And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you meet the day with expectation of the good things to come as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.~Robert Louis Stevenson

So often we become so focused on the harvest that we forget that sowing the right seeds is necessary to get the results we desire. Think of your life as garden today and consider the seeds you must sow to cultivate a thing of beauty.

Just as the gardener must choose his seeds wisely and plant them in fertile soil -- we must choose our thoughts and dreams wisely and nurture them as they grow.

Today, I am grateful for the singing birds, the flash of yellow finches and the robin perched high above the earth singing his welcome to the day. I am grateful for the promise of sun today that has yet to appear amidst the silent gray clouds. I am grateful for a reprieve from late spring rains that has enveloped our world for far too long.


I am grateful for herbs, for flowers and vegetables I have yet to plant. I am grateful for my garden that lies in wait of sunny days, for my climbing rose that grows beneath the clouds waiting to burst forth with the sun. I am grateful for the mighty forest that provides a home to creatures large and small.


I am grateful for the vast oceans of the world, for mountains that stand proud and tall and rainforests teeming with life. I am grateful for wild flowers, for butterflies and bees.


I am grateful for my family and my children who always make me proud.


And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you concentrate on sowing the seeds of a bright tomorrow as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. John Updike

Too often, we let the world around us convince us that our dreams are unrealistic or that we cannot attain them and give up before we have even tried. Guard against the influence of those who lack your vision. Cultivate belief in the beauty of your dreams, today, as you work to meet your goals. Always remember that it is your belief and faith in your dreams that brings them to pass.

Today, I am grateful for the promise of a returning sun, for the red-breasted grossbeak that adorns my feeder and for raindrops that slow to a light mist.


I am grateful for ears that hear, a heart that beats and lungs that breathe. I am grateful for fingers to type, for a clear sound mind and a sense of humor.

I am grateful for the ability to dream and for the knowledge that I hold the power to make my dreams come true. I am grateful for clarity of thought that I may direct my energies in the direction I wish to go. I am grateful for opportunities to share my skills with others, for hands that are eager to offer help when it is needed, and for a heart that see the good in the world.


I am grateful for laughter as it rings out, sending positive waves into the world, for smiles that brighten a damp, dreary day, and for moments of silence that brings peace to the soul.


I am grateful for family and friends who I hold dear, for pets who share my life and for wild animals that find shelter from the storm. I am grateful for teachers who honor the value of children, for parents who strive to improve their lives and for the unborn who will one day inherit the world.


And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you always believe in your ability to reach your goals as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

Dream Quotes to Live By
Find out what great minds like Thoreau, Harriet Tubman
and Eleanor Roosevelt have to say about the value of your
dreams.

Avoid problems, and you'll never be the one who overcame them. Richard Bach

As humans, we often accept obstacles in our way as a reason to quit or as sign that our dreams and goals are not meant to be. Instead of finding a way around them, we give up, giving them the power to control our success and direction in life.

Cultivate the habit of viewing obstacles as challenges to overcome and work diligently to reach your goals and dreams, despite the obstacles in your way.

Today, I am grateful to Richard Bach whose work is filled with inspiration and universal truths. I am grateful for eyes to read, a heart to understand and the courage to overcome obstacles. I am grateful for encouraging words, giving hearts and opportunities I have yet to see.


I am grateful for new opportunities that have come my way, for the ability to meet them with grace and confidence and for a future filled with light. I am grateful for rainy days that precede the sun, for nights that bring us rest and for sunsets in all their glory.


I am grateful for air to breathe, food to eat and time to play. I am grateful for work that motivates me, for an outpouring of words that touch the lives of others and for coffee.


I am grateful for a circle of people I call friends, for family bonds and for children everywhere. I am grateful for the elderly who share their experience with the world, for the young who meet life with exuberance and for Baby Boomers who still strive to find their way in the world.


And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you cultivate the art of overcoming obstacles as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

~More inspirational words from Richard Bach~

Inspirational Richard Bach Quotes
A Forerunner of the Secret
 If you are a product of the seventies, you probably remember "Jonathan Livingston Seagull" and "Illusions" by Richard Bach. Their truths ring as true today as they did over 30 years ago.

I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10

Many people assume the Law of Attraction is nothing more that new age thinking that has no real basis. Some question whether the principles are Biblical in nature and shy away out of fear or uncertainty. From my point of view, the incredible power of the human mind is evidence of the divine hand of God in creating the vast Universe. Read more about what the Bible has to say about how your thinking and your faith affects the world around you~

Does the Bible Support the Law of Attraction?

Many view the Law of Attraction and the teachings of the Bible as opposing views, but with close inspection they may be more similar than you think. Inspirational Bible verses to get you on track for receiving blessings.

 

Today, I am grateful for the vast Universe in all its beauty, for clouds filled with rain that replenish the earth and for birds that sing happily from treetops.

 

I am grateful for the fragrance of newly mowed lawns, for the tiny white violets and for daffodils. I am grateful for leaves unfurling, lilacs that will soon bloom and for the soft green grass beneath bare feet.

 

I am grateful for  Family and friends that fill my life, for those I have yet to meet and those who have touched my life long ago that made me who I am.

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May your life be filled with abundance as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness. Abraham Maslow

According to Deepak Chopra in Quantum Healing, bliss is a state where healing takes place. It is an old Ayurveda  term that refers to a state of being where awareness is heightened and self knowledge is attained.

This always seemed a bit out of reach for me--until I read that to understand bliss, one must be present in the moment. I'll admit it, I've read that a few times and self-righteously scoffed at those who spend their lives dwelling in the past or romantically dreaming of a future that they are unwilling to work towards. I thought I lived in the moment.

I was wrong. You see, I confused living in the present with living in the moment. Many of us "live in the present" and have mastered the art of releasing the past. What we haven't done well is learn to live in the moment. We blame it on our face-paced lives, our many commitments and our quest to reach our goals and dreams. We are bound to the modern concept that the prize lies at the end that the first person to get there wins. It doesn't.

I decided to give this new concept a try and make a concentrated effort to "live the moment". I consciously brought my thoughts back to the moment as soon as they strayed. It was harder than I expected. Not because controlling your thoughts is difficult, but because it goes against everything we have been taught.

I was surprised to learn how much of my day is spent ignoring the moment and looking either forward or backward in time. Instead of enjoying breakfast, I found myself reviewing the things I needed to do as soon as it was done. While writing an article, my mind wandered to the next one I would write. When I took the dog out, I found myself hurrying him so I could be on to the next task on my list. Instead of enjoying the moments of my day, I was rushing through them--cruising onward to the next and the next as though I would suddenly find some magical prize.

This morning, when the dog and I ventured out for a morning walk, I resisted the urge to rush on to the next task in my day. I listened to the robins sing and felt the gentle spring breeze against my face. I watched the return of the hummingbird as he arrived at dawn sipping nectar from my feeder in silent bliss. The goldfinch flashed his brilliant yellow as the sun's rays painted the horizon and I heard the quiet rustle of the wind.

Cultivate the habit of living "in the moment" as you strive to reach your dreams, never letting the vision of the future overpower the joy of the moment.

Today, I am grateful for an amazing Universe that provides for all our needs, for the mighty God who brought it into being and for the blessings I have received.


I am grateful to live amidst nature--for country roads, meandering brooks and creatures large and small. I am grateful green grass, unfolding leaves and brilliant blue skies. 


I am grateful for the goodness of people and their desire to help one another along the way. I am grateful for family and friends that make my life rich, for pets that bring added warmth and for gardens that just now begin to grow.


And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May the moments of your day be filled with bliss as you learn to live in the moment while creating the path to the direction of your dreams.