I have a cold today. (Yick.) Don’t want it, didn’t ask for it (unless indulging in too much junk food counts, which it does) and want it to go away – now.
Now, I can have a cold today and be miserable (e.g. grouchy, ornery, complaining and ticked off) or I can have a cold and be appreciative (of my strong immune system, that Cold Calm works so well, that I am still well enough to usher at my daughter’s high school musical). The severity and length of my cold has a LOT to do with which one I choose.
You may or may not believe this last statement to be true, but an increasing number of people share the experience that it is true. While some may attribute this dynamic to the mysteries of the human body or the Universe or whatever, I don’t think it is all that mysterious.
When I think my immune system is strong, I tend to do things to support it well, like avoid sugar, drink lots of water and rest. When I notice that Cold Calm is working, I tend to take it on schedule and want to support its work, as well. When I am grateful for ushering, I tend to smile about it, which draws other people to me, which feels good and makes me forget that I feel bad.
What is true of you – today – that is impacted by how you choose to see it?
- Your lover is being selfish?
- You don’t have enough money?
- You feel too fat?
- Your job stinks?
It is not my suggestion that you deny your feelings about this. Go ahead, notice how it feels. Then:
- Ask yourself: “Is this going away today?” (Probably not, so how do you want to live it today?)
- Acknowledge the way it feels right now, while remembering that feelings are temporary indicators of temporary thoughts.
- Name what else is true, with a focus on what you appreciate, feel gratitude about.
- Ask, which story about this adversity is likely to hold it in place and which story is likely to move it toward resolution. In which state are you more likely to remember and do the things that help?
It is really not such a big thing that I am suggesting: Lay your hand on the rudder of your own boat and choose the thoughts that lift you up vs thoughts that drag you down. Who wouldn’t want that?
Oh, you’ll forget, but you’ll also remember – and choose – again. Don’t get all twisted up about forgetting (and being ornery), just choose again – and feel the difference between the two.
Whether your adversity is your back or your bank account, depression or a decision, remember this: You can experience your adversity and be miserable or you can experience that adversity and notice the infinite abundance of the Universe.
The severity and duration of your adversity – and certainly the way you experience it – has a LOT to do with which one you choose.
