April 3, 2022
Good morning my friends. I hope you are doing well and enjoying life. This past Friday, the first, was April Fool’s day. It’s amazing we’re already three months into 2022. Just when I thought life, and the world, was going to improve, it took a very different turn. Life can be unpredictable, and a complicated mess at times, but it can also be a magnificent journey of happiness and bliss. Much of the process of how we visualize events can depend on our perception, interpretation and attitude. How our mind traverse’s life events and changes, speaks to our mental fortitude and power. Negativity only breeds more of the same, while creating a defeatist attitude. I greet the sunrise with positivity, gratitude and happiness. It doesn’t mean my life is perfect or that issues won’t arise. Maintaining this state of mind, even in times of struggles or adversity, keeps me focused on what is truly important in life. There may be challenges along my path, but each new day brings opportunities for success. Take the time to slow yourself, so you can recognize the positive pathways, before they pass you by. How you respond to situations, good or bad, depends on your mind set and openness the change. It’s in your best interest to remain focused on the present and optimistic for the future. Don’t worry about the past. It’s long gone. I navigate each day with compassion and courtesy. The better I care for myself, the more kindness and energy I reflect. When I control my thoughts, I have the ability to change the world. It might not happen overnight, but then sometimes it actually does. No fooling!
So, what’s bothering you today? Is it finances, relationships, health, loss, some other issue or maybe it’s just fear? There are many things beyond our control; including how others perceive life. Whatever you are feeling or struggling with today, you are never alone. Remember, there are many people, across our planet, dealing with a variety of issues. Many individuals are dealing with circumstances with far greater significance than our own. I was checking news stories, this past week, when I read about a tragic incident. A South Carolina woman is fighting for her life after being mauled by three dogs. She lost a leg and both arms in the attack. Her injuries are severe and only God knows if she’ll survive. The incident is horrific, to say the least. Tornados touched our soil, across the US, reeking destruction and taking lives. We have no control over the havoc of natural disasters. Then I read an update on the Ukraine, where millions of people are affected by the war being perpetrated on this nation. Thousands have been killed and injured, while thousands more are being subdued and forcibly taken into Russia. Millions are being displaced or fleeing to neighboring countries. This entire scenario is devastating. A friend reached out to me a few weeks ago. She was collecting medical supplies to be sent to the war torn nation. She asked if I’d be interested in joining a small team to deliver the materials. I could hand them off in a bordering country or I could be in the convoy to deliver them to the Ukrainian border. I considered going, but declined because my daughter expects me to walk her down the aisle someday. If circumstances were different, and I was a bit younger, I would have joined her team. I sensed it just didn’t feel right. I read a post on Thursday; a convey of vehicles bringing humanitarian aid and supplies (including two of her vans) had been bombed. Seven individuals were killed and several injured in the attack. One (possibly two) of her volunteers were among those killed. The story is sad and tragic; as are the horrific attacks and violence being perpetrated by Putin and the Russian military.
How do these incidents compare to what you may be struggling with today? Remember, there are people suffering, at this very moment, around the world. We have food, water, shelter and no bombs being dropped on our neighborhoods. In college, I was a political science major (international relations and comparative governments); with a history minor. I understand the reasoning behind not dropping a huge bomb on Putin and eliminating the evil problem. We witnessed what happened in Iraq when Saddam lost power and was executed. The country had no real leadership to unify the various religious factions. In countries ruled by dictators, who, within these nations, has the ability to unify or control the population after tyrannical leaders fall from power? Not all countries are ready (or willing) to immediately transition to a democratic government, like America. Nations that have existed for thousands of years often follow similar paths of rule and turmoil today. When US forces withdrew from Iraq, the government crumbled allowing the Taliban to seize control. With no preventative measures being enforced on Putin, does this open the door for other hostile leaders? It would be devastating to see China or North Korea explore their militant options and push the boundaries of their confines. Their dislike (hate filled propaganda in North Korea) for America and the free world is no secret. If you believe the government of China is our friend, you better think again. World domination is their goal. It appears their plan continues to spread and grow, while some of our political leaders line their pockets with profits. Wake up America.
I’m not a “doom and gloom” type person. I see my cup as half full, instead of the opposite. I look for beauty in all living creatures and things on this planet. I know evil exists. God does more good, even if we don’t clearly see it; while the devil attempts the opposite. I’m positive and optimistic about the future. There are many things beyond my control, but there is still much I can do to change my world. April (and spring time) brings new growth, new ideas and new development to life. It’s happening all around you, if you take the time to notice. Nature and the earth see visible new growth, as vegetation and animals spring back with life. This is the perfect time to seek self-development, change your attitude, set new intentions or alter your persona. Don’t wait for change to overtake you. Spring time offers an amazing opportunity for you to create your own change. Be positive in your own life and it will spread to the world around you. As I’ve aged, matured and hopefully added some wisdom, I see life with fresh vision and clarity. Life and love aren’t based on what I have, my physical appearance or how many possessions I accumulate. My happiness begins from within me. I am the sole proprietor of my well-being and happiness. It’s no one else’s responsibility. If I’m not happy, it’s no one’s fault but my own. It’s very easy to blame other for our misfortune. Stop talking about the negatives and focus on all the good around you. This is a great time of year to explore the possibilities. Don’t be fearful to live life, reach for your dreams or create new ones. Open your heart and soul to love and happiness. The possibilities are endless. You may just surprise yourself with the results. When you take the time to acknowledge the positive and express gratitude, a new you will emerge. This process will re-energize you and all those individuals you come into contact with. Be the change you want to see in the world. Follow your dreams. They know the way.
Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more! The puzzle of life is always changing. Change can lead to amazing opportunities. Together let’s be healthy and strong; mentally, physically and spiritually!
Thanks for your love and support! Embrace Life! Be sure to get outside and enjoy nature!
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