Inspiration - A Weekly Lift

 

The Bridge

Thanksgiving is this week.  Celebrations might be different this year with a smaller group, yet spreading goodwill remains constant.   Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, pie and all the fixings will be set out on the table with a simple reminder.  We are thankful to live in this country.  We are thankful for our family and friends.  We are thankful for our existence.  We are thankful for our homes.  

There is so much to be thankful in 2020.  Yes, there is.  Is it a tumultuous year?  Yes, absolutely one of extreme lifestyle change, tragedy for many and a shift for all to think about what is important in your own life.   What is important to you?  Is it being connected? Is it nature? Is it helping others or sharing yourself when needed?  

I think this year is one of growth, challenge, perseverance, acceptance, and change.  We are crossing a bridge this season.  A bridge of hope.  A bridge of renewal. 

How can we prepare to embrace this new bridge of hope? 

The First Step - Connection

"The most important things in life are the connections you make with others."  Tom Ford

Making a connection with someone is a powerful elixir for all.  It is so important, now more than ever.  Everyone has a story, and many are suffering either from real life issues, stress, or anxiety.  Reach out, pick up the phone, lend a helping hand, listen to someone and spread joy.   A simple smile or interaction with another person brings happiness to self and to others.  Unfurl your wings and start a new trend of connecting with everyone you meet along your path.   Your neighbors on a walk, an animal, grocery clerk, family member or a friend.  Ask how they are doing?  Your family?  What is new? 

The reward is ten-fold.  And the value of connection will help start a new bridge of connection with humankind.  You will be instantly uplifted and so will the people you share yourself daily.  Be memorable. 

Spread the bridge of connection.  Do not be an island where you are untouchable.  Rather seek out daily connection from all that cross your path.  Talk to people!

The Second Step - Embrace Change

"Change is inevitable.  Growth is optional." 

Change is inevitable.  Nothing in nature is a still life painting or pristine photograph.  Everything is moving and evolving whether we want it to or not.   Think of a river flowing majestically, twisting, and turning, sometimes rapidly or meandering.  Our lives are a river.  Make the most of each day.  Accept the daily change in your world.   The world at large will keep on playing out on centerstage. We have no control.   Remember, "control is an infantile illusion."  Great quote to solidify in your mind. 

One of my favorite weekly writers mentioned recently that she feels another shoe is about to drop.  Maybe it is?  In fact, for certain globally there will be something new to ponder, to access and to process.  In thinking about one of my favorite movies, "Just Go With It", I find this is the motto to get you through anything.  "Just Go With It."   You can do it. You will be fine. Put anger, disappointment, and anything stressful on the shelf.   Don't let negative news or turbulent affairs ruin your day. 

Share the bridge motto of  "Just Go With It."   Spread the idea of calmness.  Listen to others and their concerns but diffuse the chaos.  "Just Go With It" 

The Third Step - Be Grateful 

"Gratitude turns what we have into enough." 

Gratitude.  Are you grateful? How many people are truly satisfied?  Do their words and actions display contentment?  Do you have enough of what you need?  Are you grateful for what you have right now?  Or are you unsatisfied wishing or wanting what you do not own?  Are you trying to keep up with others who have more "stuff"?  Do you think it would make you happy?  

Gratitude is indeed a blessing.  Gratitude for family and friends.  Gratitude for your existence.  Gratitude for what you have an own. We are indeed blessed for the world we live in.  Gratitude becomes an idea that is ingrained in your mind.  Gratitude becomes a bridge of peace and contentment.  Gratitude is spiritual enlightenment.   It contains a sense of calmness that flows over you like warm water.  The shift is noticeable when you meet someone who is truly content and grateful.  Be that person.  Be the person meandering down your own personal river with a contentment. 

Fan out the idea of gratefulness. Unfold the bridge of gratitude.  Do not worry about the future because it will come. Instead, enjoy and embrace the present.  Be grateful. 

The bridge of hope contains these three tenants:  connection, acceptance of change and knowing that you are grateful for your circumstances and life.  With these three concepts, anyone can become content, be at peace and a powerful leader who exudes joy.   

Thanksgiving is almost here.  Take a moment and rejoice with your loved ones. Pray for the ill and infirm.  Most of all, give thanks for this last year, thanks for what is to come and thanks for the present.  

May you all have a glorious Thanksgiving! 

"Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing.  To keep our faces toward change and behave like free spirits in the presence of fate is strength undefeatable."  - Helen Keller

Until Next Time,

Kim