To End Preoccupation with Distress

If we are to be happy, we must reclaim the curiosity of a child. And while we might restrain our approach, we can look around and outside of ourselves to discover that the world has expanded beyond our belly buttons.

Sometimes we become bogged down by the baggage of the past - what happened to us (or them), how we used to think, be, have, do, etc, and the myriad comparisons that keep us from living in the present time.

As we age, we gather more past. And while understanding that the past might contain useful information, it is also historical data. To move forward in our lives, opening to the present situation allows fresh thinking. As we continue to rely on what has been done before, we block the channels of inspiration.

When we are overwhelmed by hurt, angry, lonely feelings based in past situations here is the commitment to support letting go and forward movement:

It is logically possible and certainly desirable to end the ancient habit of paying attention to past distress and to replace it with a new attitude or posture of paying attention to interesting and rewarding concerns - including the present time situation. And so, I now decide to to this - and will repeatedly so decide - until the ancient habit is broke. (From Re-evaluation Counseling)

I have found this commitment helpful in reshaping my attention around my family of origin, past romantic relationships, lost friendships, and today's job search. Even as I consider where to apply to work, feeling surface which require acknowledgement and then a redirection of my attention.

Happiness is a choice and it's an inside job.

Look up. There is something to catch your attention.

From the Cloud Collection

YaY!