In a period when it seems there is more than enough negative to go around, I am more convinced more than ever of the importance of positive thoughts, positive words, positive actions…positive people.
I too have opinions on the arguments that are prevalent in this world. My opinions come after thought, listening, reading, and experience. As I have steered away from joining in the arguments — my heart and mind are tired of the yelling — I have found I still need to be purposeful in being positive. I want to be mindful that I don’t turn negative toward those choosing to voice their opinions. That has not been easy for me. I continue to be a work in progress and am aware of the choices before me.
Life is not easy. There is much that comes with pain and there are definitely concerns in this world. I am not minimizing pain or concerns. That would be contrary to my nature. I care deeply. However, in caring deeply, I am encouraging myself and anyone who reads to search for extra in the ordinary. Choose to have an awareness of what is nearby. Choose to find something to celebrate today and live in the moments at hand.
These thoughts do not come from a pollyanna point of view. I’m not living in a vacuum or isolation, nor am I surrounded by fear. Recent days for me have been filled with grief and mourning and I am aware that the process is never really complete on this earth. While walking through grief, I know the impact of gratitude and the steps of caring for myself. Sharing joy are important pieces of each next step.
Walking is a choice I make as regularly as I can. It has proven to be beneficial in many areas of my life.
As I have walked a familiar path often in recent weeks, I have found delight in noticing the increase of acorns on the ground. Some have been shelled and I like the sound made as they crunch underfoot. I have taken care to notice the mighty burr oaks, their large canopies, the shelter of their limbs and leaves, and the many, many acorns that have come after years of growth. The joy from these oaks could have been missed without the choice to take note. The choice to soak in the moment, seeing the extra in the ordinary is a choice worth making.
Those acorns are beautiful. They are each unique and offer the hope of life — either from new growth or from the nourishment they provide to local inhabitants. The ordinary, yet unique acorns are beautiful to my eyes and underneath that shell, there is something more. The potential of what is underneath is perhaps what I find most beautiful.
My life is ordinary by most accounts. I suspect most of life is made up of ordinary moments and in that manner, we all live ordinary lives. That’s a beautiful thing. The ordinary moments of life are where we live. How are you choosing to live those moments? I’m choosing to notice what is nearby, appreciating what I can experience right now. I hope that in doing so, I can offer encouragement and add something positive.
There are perhaps parallels that can be made with the acorns. Perhaps they might correspond to people, or life events, challenges or opportunities. I don’t know what that parallel — if any — might be for you. I do know that my ordinary days are better for having noticed them.
dianegratopp 