January 4, 2016
Always The Write Time
Author, Editing, Grief, Happiness, Publishing, Uncategorized, Writing
amends, assumption, bitterness, blame, forgiveness, goodwill, ownership, promises, reconciliation, regret, responsibility, validation
Over the past several weeks, I’ve initiated a concerted effort to make amends with people I’ve hurt, owning up to my wrongs—taking ownership for unkind words and broken promises (see ‘Turn the page to begin anew’). Perhaps you are convinced someone close to you betrayed you and, without seeking any kind of validation, you succumbed to rash assumptions and drastic measures. Then, too late, you realized your erroneous thinking. It really doesn’t matter who was to blame because, in the end, it takes at least two. And love refuses to demand its own way. Consequently, all you can do is accept your personal role in the situation and ensure that your actions, moving forward, coincide with your words. In time the door to reconciliation might open but, until then, I suggest you offer up forgiveness and goodwill. When we accept responsibility, it doesn’t expunge our wrongs, yet it does free our hearts and minds from bitterness and regret.
Is there a wrong you need to right today?
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January 3, 2016
Always The Write Time
Author, Editing, Grief, Happiness, Publishing, Uncategorized, Writing
half century, learning, liberating, truth, unhappy
A couple of months ago, I was chatting with a friend about someone close to me who is unhappy with life in general. I know I haven’t always made it easy for this person, so I told my friend I have my work cut out for me. And then my friend said something mind blowing: “That’s not your job. They need to work it out on their own.” What?! You mean I’m only responsible for fixing myself? Talk about liberating. Although I already knew this truth, deep down, the validation was good to hear. Once again, we can only control ourselves and our response to whatever is going on around us. Even though I’ve got a half century of living under my belt, the personal assignments I’ve engaged in daily over the past several weeks have taught me a lot—mostly that I still have quite a bit to learn about life. But at least I’m learning.
What is something you recently learned about yourself, or about life?
Image courtesy of clce.onmason.com.
January 2, 2016
Always The Write Time
Author, Editing, Grief, Happiness, Publishing, Uncategorized, Writing
2016, balance, disapointment, discouragement, expectations, happiness, health, intention, new beginnings, New Year, New Year's Eve, promises, regret, simplicity, wellness
The first blank page of 2016 arrives with good intentions: Simplicity. Balance. Happiness, health and wellness. Just when we thought it was safe, in creeps remnants of discouragement. Wait, didn’t we leave that behind at 11:59 p.m. on New Year’s Eve? As I folded and put away a couple days’ worth of clean laundry this morning, I reflected on how, when not managed immediately (or within a reasonable amount of time), the wash and myriad household tasks pile up much like the residual of unkind words, broken promises and unrealized expectations—all of which weigh us down with disappointment, regrets or hurt. I suggest, instead, we do what we can in an allotted period of time; i.e., spend XX minutes each day working on housekeeping tasks or making an effort to right a wrong, and then be done with it. Let it go, whatever it is. And with intention, choose to travel lighter, unburdened. Then turn the page to begin anew.
How did your New Year’s Day transpire?
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January 1, 2016
Always The Write Time
Author, Editing, Grief, Happiness, Nontraditional College Graduate, Publishing, Uncategorized, Writing
2016, balance, challenge, contentment, happiness, Happy New Year, joy, New Year, peace, regroup, road less traveled, setback, simplify, sparkle, unexpected, waiting place
When I complete a survey now, I check the 50-55 box (when did that happen?). Finally, I’ve discovered happiness in its myriad levels—joy, contentment, peace. I’ve gotten the hang of this balanced life thing and look forward to simplifying in the New Year so I can experience more of the above. I’ve set the cruise control and am prepared to sparkle my way into this new season. But what happens when you’re traveling on the right path and life behind the wheel doesn’t look like you hoped for or expected? Maybe you’ve returned to your proverbial waiting place to plan for a new transition (e.g., career change or physical relocation). Perhaps your GPS requires recalibration to allow you to regroup while you navigate the scenic route for a spell. It’s possible a recent challenge or setback is meant to strengthen you to help family or friends. Just take a deep breath, sit back and savor the ride. And Happy New Year!
How do you handle the unexpected?
Image courtesy of jk1991 at FreeDigitalPhotos.net.
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