Image by Crystl via FlickrLove this quote:
Let us be grateful to people who make us happy;
they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.
-Marcel Proust
I am also learning to change my perspective toward the difficulties that life brings and this poem sums it up beautifully:
Be Thankful For...
by Author Unknown
Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire,
If you did, what would there be to look forward to?
Be thankful when you don't know something
For it gives you the opportunity to learn.
Be thankful for the difficult times.
During those times you grow.
Be thankful for your limitations
Because they give you opportunities for improvement.
Be thankful for each new challenge
Because it will build your strength and character.
Be thankful for your mistakes
They will teach you valuable lessons.
Be thankful when you're tired and weary
Because it means you've made a difference.
It is easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are
also thankful for the setbacks.
GRATITUDE can turn a negative into a positive.
Find a way to be thankful for your troubles
and they can become your blessings.
Exercising has been wonderful for my stress levels this past week- I did weights 2 X's and ran on the treadmill with the weight work-out. I also did Cycle (spin) class 2 x's last week as well. It makes all the difference in the energy and stress levels I experience. Plus making a reward of a nice hot bath afterwards is a great addition to my schedule.
Image via WikipediaExercise: Exercise can help decrease feelings of anxiety and can give you a sense of well-being. It boosts the oxygen and blood flow to the brain helping it to relax regularly. It also enhances well-being through the release of endorphins, the brain's feel-good chemicals. Research shows that as little as 30 minutes of exercise three to five times a week can provide significant anxiety relief.
from: http://www.lifemojo.com/
In conclusion for this tour of my growth and well-being - let's get spiritual:
* Jesus really is the reason for the Season! Unless you make a concerted effort to really think and pray about that then this season becomes a time of over-eating, selfishness, and materialism. I can feel some positive changes that come from studying the Word, more prayer time, and giving my time and gifts to others during the holidays. Christmas music is such an easy way to focus on Jesus- but you really have to let it overtake your thoughts and use your mind's eye to picture what the songs depict. Meditating on those images and the birth of the Messiah are great gifts that you can give yourself during the season.
Image via Wikipedia
Image by wgbhmorningstories via Flickr
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