So, getting back to my Word of the Year; Mindful. I selected that particular word to remind myself to be mindful, to be fully present. Today, it has occurred to me that not only can I choose to be mindful, I can choose what I am mindful about. I can choose to direct my thoughts to dwell on all the negatives in my life, or I can choose to be thankful for the many gifts and blessings that I do have.
I. can. choose.
And my choice will radically affect how I live and how I see the world around me. A heart and mind focused on the negative will suck the life out of me, overwhelming me and beginning a downward spiral into depression and anxiety. But a heart and mind focused on thankfulness will be full of reflected light and produce joy. Thankfulness also has the side benefit of reminding me that the blessings I have are a gift not a right. I have not somehow earned them because I am deserving. It helps put pride in a proper perspective. Yes, I am responsible for the choice to develop and use those gifts and blessings, but the fact that I have them at all is no more my doing than the color of my eyes. So today, in this moment, I choose a mindset of gratitude and thankfulness in my not so splendid life. What are you grateful for today?
Blessings,
Janet
