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!

New Beginnings

It's happening Now!

In December 2010 I decided that instead of making New Year’s resolutions, I would make promises to myself and the basis of each promise would be toward being happier, healthier and far more interesting. That would eliminate the woulds, coulds, shoulds, and oughts and leave me with ideas, activities, goals and choices that actually fulfilled what I believe to be my mission in life. 

Who knew I would be here today? I had planned to leave my job for varied reasons, but had set the date past the holidays for financial ones. The longer I stayed employed the more earned time off and holiday pay I would receive. The moment came when I realized that I was effectively scarifying my peace of mind for a few dollars. So I moved the date closer. As the number of unpleasant events occurred in repetition I realized I would be leaving even sooner than my ideal. The date crept so close I needed an immediate plan and began a 100 day countdown. 

I have reached zero and moved beyond. Here I am at the end of another year with myriad events to reflect upon. Having already freaked out it’s time to live in the shift. Returning home today I thought, “I am going to OCCUPY MY HOME!” It was a loud thought. My home is more than just the place I come and go from. My life is more than serving for the profit of others. This time outside of public work gives me the freedom to serve my neighborhood and community. To bridge the gaps that keep us separated as human beings, especially as I was working nights and spending all the rest of my time struggling around sleep. Oh yes, there is cleaning and repairs and writing, of course. But as winter shuts us inside easily, I will purposely step outside my door and look the world in its cold blustery eye recognizing that I have the freedom to stand tall and breathe clearly.

This is not bucket list or last wishes. We are not promised tomorrow or even five minutes from now. Live like you are dying. Step up and into the moment.

What are you waiting for?