July 31, 2022
Good morning my friends. I hope you are doing well and enjoying life. It’s already the last day of July 2022! August is merely hours away. I continue to be amazed at the speed the months (and year) are flying by. If you aren’t enjoying life, then it’s time you change your attitude or perception. The new month means we’re more than halfway through summer as well. If you’re a fan of the hot weather, get out there and enjoy it! I’m a transplant from the west to east coast, and summer is definitely different here. SoCal summers are typically hot and dry (beach and mountains included), although some beaches enjoy that cool Pacific breeze. The main difference, here on the southern coast, has been the humidity (with heat) and the frequency and intensity of storms. A day may start with sunshine and blue sky; then massive dark clouds roll in, with earth shaking thunder, bolts of lightning and torrential downpours. The storms and amount of rainfall is really quite impressive; especially for a SoCal boy (born and raised). I’m enjoying these amazing events and displays of God and Nature. They are incredible and fun to watch. Who knew a rain storm could produce so much fun! The east coast heat and humidity; well what can I say, it’s icky and sticky.
Some individuals would say the new month brings more opportunities for growth and success. I say each new day brings the same possibilities. The question is, do you take the time to slow yourself down and recognize those chances before they pass you by? Life is like a story. Some pages are sad, some are happy and others are filled with joy and excitement. If you don’t embrace life and be an active participant of your story, you will never know how it all turns out. Life is a priceless gift. It’s yours for a limited time. Once it’s gone, you can’t get it back. Many people are moving at warp speed, from point A to point B. They don’t slow down enough to see or understand the events or possibilities as they pass by. We may never know what the outcome could have been when an incredible opportunity is missed. Life will continue, and work out, as it should; but I believe slowing down allows us to savor and enjoy each moment. It’s okay to increase the speed now and then, if needed, but slowing down just works better. Every morning when I wake up, I thank God for another day on this planet. The rest is up to me. It’s my responsibility to be happy and live my life with kindness, respect and gratitude. No one else is in charge of making me happy. Life provides us with this amazing opportunity. It’s up to us to enjoy and cherish these moments or not.
A few months ago, someone told me I was “too positive.” I’m not sure that’s possible, but I sat with their comment for some time. I don’t know this person very well, but I do know they’ve dealt with struggles in life. Maybe they’ve been tainted by trauma or the cruel nature of humans. I can only speculate on the reasons. I’ve experienced difficult times in life, as have us all, in varying degrees. What I once thought was important, as a young man, is no longer at the top of my list now. Maturity, age and experience have altered my insight and wisdom. I’ve had my share of heartache, tragedy and sadness. My goal, with each new sunrise, is to be a better, happier and more positive me. It doesn’t mean my life is perfect, because perfection is a myth. Yes, I have “down” times, but I recognize them and lift myself up again. Life can be as easy or as difficult as we make it. My choice is to live a happy, grateful and positive life. Being negative or hateful serves no purpose; ultimately only hurting me. My attitude impacts each individual I encounter, and that carries on to each person they contact. I am a true believer that kindness makes the universe a better place; even if it’s just one person at a time. If I smile and greet each person, with a friendly demeanor, that smile will be paid forward each and every time. If you wish to be cynical and remain resistant, that’s your choice. Our world has individuals that aren’t good or positive; for whatever reason. I’m not here to judge them or anyone. The world is an imperfect place. My attitude brightens my day and hopefully yours too It’s a good time to change your attitude and be part of the solution for a better life.
The events we encounter in life can be difficult, tough and challenging (at times); to say the least. For some individuals, it can be a relentless battle to breathe and exist. Anxiety and depression have the ability to manipulate our perception and well-being. I’ve experienced the dark feelings these create, from years of dealing with tragedy and sorrow. I understand how a person can get to the point of no return; where they believe the pain is too much to endure. I’ve seen the darkness and evil, and I know where these thoughts lead. My mental fortitude and strength helped carry me past those difficult times; although it wasn’t until years later that I realized the damage that had been done. Our military, law enforcement, first responders and others, often fall prey to these horrors. When you feel the pain overtaking your body, please know that relief is there, possible and it works. I’ve seen and experienced the sorrow and loss of friends, co-workers, loved ones and individuals I didn’t know. The tragedy of life surrounded me for over half my life, and the memories will remain etched in my thoughts forever. Pain relief doesn’t come from medication, alcohol, drugs, manufactured substitutes, possessions or people. These “crutches” simply mask the real issues; while creating additional problems. Take the time to dig deep into your mind, body and soul and search your past; you’ll discover the root of the problem. This is where you will discover your pain relief. I’m fortunate to have a friend, who helped me recognize the need for professional assistance, based on my trauma and events from my past. I did my shadow work, peeled back my armor (with the help of counseling and EMDR therapy) to expose my soul. It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t difficult either. I wanted to heal, feel better and live a happier life. The effort I put in paid off and I discovered my pain relief.
Our time on this planet can be amazing and spectacular. Navigating the difficult days and creating happiness takes work and commitment. It’s definitely a choice. I’ve outlined, in past articles, how I wake up each morning, making a conscience choice to be happy. I understand how this isn’t an easy or simple decision for some individuals. I use to think my happiness was dependent on others. I didn’t recognize how personal happiness was my choice and responsibility. It wasn’t until later in life that I realized this was all on me. No person, possession or thing can make me (or you) happy. People, possessions and adventures, help create moments of joy, that make memories. The experiences, especially those shared, are what makes life worth living. Cast aside your fears, doubts and pain; to relieve yourself of these burdens of life. I live my life with discipline, determination, positivity and happiness. Gratitude and kindness play huge roles in my everyday life. I have much to be thankful for; beginning each new day with my prayers of thanks. Stay positive my friends. If you need help or assistance, it’s within reach; as am I. 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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