Jonathan of Illuminated Mind recently posed a very good question. Quote:
“Do you think you could bypass a lot of struggle trying to fix all the things supposedly wrong with your life, and instead learn how to appreciate the things that are right with it?”
I have to agree. I have went through this process myself. I have learned to take a deep appreciation of everything that is wonderful in my life, and let the “wrong” things hold little importance to me. Focusing on what is good and beneficial has brought me down the path of success.
Allow me to explain. I am an optimist, even when most people see nothing to be optimistic about. I find the silver lining on every cloud, no matter how dark. Yet there are times when I get in a deep depression, and doubt the entire state of my life. Am I doing the right things? Will I be successful? Should I get a different job or move across the country? Am I being true to myself? Who am I anyway?
Letting these kinds of thoughts take control will only lead me deeper into my depression, leaving me lethargic, unmotivated, and irritable. So I have decided to not let these thoughts take a stranglehold on me. Each day, I remember what is beautiful and right with my life. My setbacks are temporary, but the beauty in my life is permanent. Even as things come and go, I can look back on the good and remember that my life is special, and worth living.
This realization does eliminate a lot of personal struggle and conflict. I am not approaching life with a deficit. Instead, I know that I already have a lot of great things that life offers, and there are only more good things on the horizon. Life is an adventure to be enjoyed, not a problem to be fixed.
I also know that I am a good worthwhile person, deserving happiness. There is nothing wrong with me. My setbacks are not a result of some unchangeable character defect. Instead, setbacks are a part of life, to be lived through and overcome. I am a better person because I have gotten through a lot of difficult parts of life. I am capable of surviving and thriving throughout any challenge life gives me.
So, in no particular order, here are some things that are right with my life.
- My family. We’re a happy little bunch. Raising two kids is a great challenge, but I love them so much. They’re a lot of fun, and inspire me in little ways. The other day my oldest daughter tried to say “Republicans”, but it came out “coconuts.” No comment, but it was good for a laugh.
- My health. Besides giving birth, I’ve never had to spend time in a hospital for myself. I do get sick every now and then, but nothing life-threatening. I have been blessed to be a strong, healthy woman, able to take care of my family.
- My writing. I am able to write on a regular basis. This is very important, because when I do get depressed, my writing goes right out the window. At one point, I had not written anything in three years. For a writer, that is very disheartening. Every time I write, I give thanks for the chance I have to do so.
- My friends. I have a great support system. Each of my friends supply a little boost, a little joy, each in their own way. In addition, I have my internet friends, and I’m gaining more every day.
- My ability to give. I have a generous heart. Although I may not be able to give in the ways I would like to (I’d love to win the lottery and give so much to my favorite charities) I can still give with an encouraging word, a smile, or a hug. I truly enjoy giving, and making the world a little bit brighter because I’m in it.
- My home. I have a nice place to live, with electricity, water, and internet. There are many people in the world who don’t have a roof over their heads, and I remember that each day when I wake up.
This is just a short list, I could continue. Suffice it to say that I have a beautiful life, that I can be proud of. From this base, I can go forward and take on the world. My goals and dreams are in easy reach, because I have a good life to build upon.
So I’ll continue the tradition and tag you as well. What’s right with your life? Write your own blog post about it, and let us all know about your blessings
