Dear Readers,
It’s almost Christmas, and Hannuka and the Winter Solstice have just passed. It’s the time of year for gift-giving in almost every tradition and faith. So I thought I’d use my space this week to give a gift to all of you. The gift of wisdom, from some of the wisest and most spiritually evolved beings I’ve been blessed to know. In other words, the best advice I’ve ever received.
Start every day appreciating the most beautiful things in your life, and in the world around you.
Get up each morning and make a list of all the good things you expect to happen that day.
Actively look for things to feel good about – and you’ll find them.
Never let your happiness depend upon anything or anyone outside of yourself and your relationship with your Source.
Stop what you’re doing, even if it’s only for a moment, to really relish the good things that happen througout your day. The traffic lights all being green. A pretty cloud formation. Sunshine on your skin, or glittering on the snow. A smiling face. A compliment. A bite of chocolate. Basking in simple pleasures is so good for you!
When you catch yourself complaining, which is most people’s synonym for conversation, rein it in, and try praising instead. Talk about what’s going right, not what’s going wrong. Tell a new story.
A miserable martyr has nothing of value to give to anyone. But a joyful being spreads that joy to all those around her. So selfishly seek joy – for to do so isn’t selfish at all.
Before falling asleep, call to mind the good things you’ve experienced that day, and tell yourself that tomorrow will be even better.
Happiness is a choice, not a condition that fluctuates wildly and without our control. It doesn’t turn itself on and off depending upon what happens at work, or school, or upon how other people behave toward us. Happiness is 100% within our own hands. So choose to be happy.
I hope your holidays bring you pleasure and joy with every package you wrap and cookie you bake. Enjoy!
Maggie