For the past two days I have put my money where my mouth is and tried to get out of my funk. I have tried my best to “get out of my own way”, as they say. Clear all the negative clutter in my mind, and focus on the good. Focus, focus, focus….
But, in truth, what I really have done is get back to practicing my gratitude meditations. It may sound very silly, or new agey, but I promise it works. I was in the habit of doing them daily, until the muck of the medical mess got in the way and clouded everything. You see, I believe with my whole heart that if you remind yourself to be appreciative of the good things in your life (even the little things), than you will eventually be able to overcome the negativity. I am not always the perfect student when it comes to following my advice, but I try. Every day I try to be grateful for something that occurred, even if it was a tiny moment. For example, this week:
*I connected with a mentor that I have admired for over two years
*I was able to take a 20 min walk with my dog Arthur, without having to rely on the pain meds to make it happen.
*Mike made me my favorite margarita (which is far better medicine than any pain pill!)
*I completed my list of “to do’s” for the week
*I caught up with a few close friends via text and phone calls…yes, people still use the phone these days.
So, even though I am overwhelmed with doctors, and bills, and chores (oh my!), I can still look around at my week and be thankful for the moments that were both simple and spectacular. I can repeat to myself “I am grateful”.
One of my favorite websites allows you to share your daily gratitudes http://thankfulfor.com/, and even allows you to create a personal gratitude journal. The best part? You get to read what other people are thankful for as well! Or, you can check out this fantastic article on learning to practice gratitude: http://www.unstuck.com/gratitude.html
So tell me…. what are you grateful for?
Let me hear your thoughts!