GET INTO THE RHYTHM OF LIFE: SLIDE DOWN, ON THE RAINBOW ...
"Sometimes it's important to work for that pot of gold. But other times it's essential to take time off and to make sure that your most important decision in the day simply consists of choosing which colour to slide down on the rainbow. "
— Douglas Pagels
Victories are sweet. We spend needless time worrying about the numerous things that have gone awry. Or might. Instead, try dwelling on the triumphs of life. The minor ones, such as buying the right accessories, or having just enjoyed a good book. And the major ones, such as a loving family, or having found a comfortable apartment, or having bought a new car, or having a great career. Aren't there a million things happening in your life that make you smile, laugh or even giggle like a school girl? Think of them.
Involve yourself in a cause. There are folks around us who are not quite so blessed. Spend some time, effort or even wealth on them. When you see the smiles on the faces of patients you visit in a hospice or a home, all your troubles will seem to vanish. Visit a school for special children with your children. Teach them art or craft Play with them or offer to go along on the school picnic they could do with extra help.
Think of others and let your stress, real or imaginary, ebb away slowly.
Believe. Believe in the goodness of human nature. In the fact that every person is looking for solace. Each one has his or her own share of problems and is not there to sabotage your life. Believe that the best is yet to come. Believe in yourself and your ability to cope with the roller coaster ride that we call life.
Generosity is the ability to give... without keeping tabs. It's only at work that you need remuneration. At other times, there is a joy in giving. Give of your time and skills and never expect returns as a matter of right. Most often, expectations lead to frustration and, its sister, stress. So, be generous in thought, word and deed. Think the best of others, leave gossip and slander alone. Do something to brighten up someone's day.
You do matter... a lot. Never forget that you are the most important person in your life. In your need to please your family and friends, in trying to match the Modis or keep up with the Kaleems, don't lose sight of the fact that your likes and dislikes matter. Spend time to pamper yourself a little...or a lot. Stay home and read your favourite book, rather than tag along to a movie you'd rather not see. Say no when you have to. It's not wrong.
Order. Bring order into your life. De-clutter your thoughts and bring in emotional order. Every night, just as you turn out your pockets or purse to clear the unnecessary, clear your head of fruitless thoughts . Bitterness and the yen for revenge are self-destructive. Throw out negative feelings and memories. In the same way, relieve yourself of material clutter. Make space, in and around you. Personal space is sacred.
Life's simple pleasures. Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens. Bright copper kettles and... what are your favourite things? Find the time to enjoy life's simple pleasures. Realise your dreams and then dream on.
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