Short Stories From 10 Years Ago – August 2, 2004
A Daily Affirmation
Short Stories From 10 Years Ago – August 2, 2004 – For years, I’ve searched for a unique phrase to define my place in life. Similar in a way, to a piece of jewellery or clothing that is a touchstone in one’s wardrobe, I wanted a phrase to make my own. One to connect me to all that is positive and good – a daily reminder to be thankful and grateful.
I haven’t come up with one yet. As usual I’ve been trying to define my world in too narrow a fashion. Just as I like things neat and clean in a three ring binder, with a plan for every occasion, I wanted a daily affirmation. I didn’t really see myself chanting or meditating for long periods of time, rather I thought a daily reminder would help to chase out those choking, blue moods that steal into my mind and render me unappreciative.
The problem with my concept of a singular, delineating life phrase, is that it didn’t allow for change. How could a statement define an entire life. I’m not the same person I was ten years ago. I’ve matured (somewhat, I hope), I think differently, act differently, have a broader understanding of my strengths and weaknesses and want my life to have new meaning. Not based on the accumulation of possessions but on the development of character and wisdom, the ability to love unconditionally, to forgive easily, to nurture hope and sustain faith.
That sounds like a tall order, but I’m convinced that the great cosmic force that looks after our universe and others, isn’t worried about cellulite, wrinkles, more expensive cars, bigger houses, breast implants, penis enlargements, face lifts, political machinations, financial greed or insider trading.
It had, and has, higher hopes for mankind. Care for our planet, disadvantaged people, our animals, forests, lakes and rivers. A true understanding of fairness, kindness, just behaviour, sharing, respect for differences, compassion, genuine caring and tolerance. The Golden Rule could certainly be a defining slogan – but as a race, humans are a long way from adopting that as a universal mantra. It’s too bad, because it would change the world forever – overnight!
As I work at doing my bit to make our world better, I’ve given up the search for the perfect phrase to live by. Instead, I read something positive and uplifting every day, I focus on what is good about my life and I select a card from my Kryon Deck of inspirational sayings every morning.
Today’s was a simple message – “The New Jerusalem in not a city in Israel. It is a metaphor for a new paradigm on Earth called “peace”. It represents the solution of the unsolvable, and the healing of hearts at the core. It is a new energy that turns rage into temperance, and transmutes hatred into understanding”. This is a wonderful way to start the day – thinking about the possibility of a peaceful world.
I can’t alter the behaviour of world leaders (they will face a greater reckoning than we can imagine) – I can have an impact upon my sphere of influence and my circle of friends. This is the responsibility that I bear, to continue to learn to approach my life with true gratitude, not platitudes, and to share whatever wisdom I glean in the process.
So as much as I’d still like to have a defining phrase, or a memorable one liner – I’m happy to accept that a broader perspective on life is a much greater teacher, than a narrowly defined personal view. All right, but what about – “I am a powerhouse woman” or “my thighs are sleek and muscular”.
Okay – I get it – it’s not just about me. But speaking about muscular thighs, I’m just about to go and do a Pilates work out – and then I’ll find a way to make a positive contribution to this beautiful, sunny day by way of genuine appreciation for my blessed life. Honest, I really do get it!
