April | 2016 | Write into the Light

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Sometimes I find myself thinking about the past; regretting mistakes I’ve made or missing the “way things used to be.” Other times I find myself worrying about the future; trying to predict outcomes and plan for scenarios yet to unfold.

When will I realize the futility of such mental activities and the toll they take on my emotional well-being?

Unlike the past and future, the present moment – what is happening right NOW – is the only true reality. The things of the past are no longer real. They were real when they were happening but those moments have passed and have now become memories. The things of the future are not real because they have not yet happened. When they happen they will be real at that moment but not a minute sooner.

To live in the past or future is like being asleep or unconscious because you are missing so much of what is actually going on in the now. To live in the present moment is to be awake, fully conscious and alive!

Today, to the best of my ability, I will try to notice the things in my present moments. I will try to stay in the “now” and I will know peace.

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There’s a lot of pressure from all around us to work, be productive, be healthy, be great, be creative, be fantastic, and to do, do, do! It’s no wonder we end up feeling stressed out, depressed, exhausted, and irritable.

What if we were to look at life as a series of choices? For example, when working we make a conscious choice to stop for a while to play. Likewise, when being productive we make a conscious choice to take time to rest. Furthermore, while we eat our fruits and vegetables, we also have a piece of cake every once in a while.

Balance is the key, but you have to choose to pick up the key and use it. Otherwise the door to a joyous and fulfilling life may remain closed to you.

Today I will pick up the key of balance and I will know peace.