The Power of P

If the number of visitors who read my recent post, ‘A simple(r) life…,’ is any indication of what much of society pursues, then this topic ranks up there with all things happiness-related. I believe that’s because a happy, simple life is a basic necessity many of us seek. However, we often get in our own way and make it complicated, instead. For example, if you’ve searched for happiness your entire life—in relationships, material goods, addictions, net worth—you’ve discovered it’s an illusion, a temporary fix. Why? Because true happiness manifests itself when we sow into others’ lives something of value, something that will last: our time. A simplicity known as kindness. It’s only then that we find fulfillment—contentment that arises from a humble heart. Good news: it’s an ongoing practice, not perfect. With that said, my pursuits for 2017 revolve around keeping it simple with the power of P: peace, patience, purpose and a more passionate prayer life.

What is your No. 1 goal for 2017?

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Asking the big question: what’s next?

 

Pivotal moments. We all experience those times in our lives where we can usually pinpoint at least one life-altering decision, milestone or epiphany. I’ve written a lot about a big one for me: my daughter had just started 10th grade and, when I realized she’d graduate in two years, I knew I didn’t want to do what I was doing for the rest of my life. Twenty-four months later I earned my B.A., just a day before this same child received her diploma. Fast forward a half dozen years: my daughter turns 24 today. I work in an industry I’m passionate about (most of the time) but, once again, I can’t say this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. Maybe it’s because hitting the half-century mark this past December signaled another turning point—an ah-ha moment of sorts. We aren’t getting out of this thing alive, and it isn’t slowing down. So what’s next?

What is a pivotal moment in your life?

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Fodder to fuel a passionate life

 

My much-anticipated adventure I alluded to in ‘That’s why they call it the blues’ entailed 250 miles, four hours of rubber hitting the pavement—mountains to the right and left of me, in front of and behind—and seven hours divided between hiking across the University of Arizona campus and sitting in on writers’ panels, workshops, readings and seminars. A book lover’s dream, the Tucson Festival of Books caters to writers, readers, travelers and artists; a place to network, meet favored authors and add to the tips of the trade. It’s a world where I bump into the same familiar faces as I traverse the writer’s circuit, gathering material to improve upon the craft. There is always a takeaway and no time is wasted when I’m fully immersed in the moment. Whether I’m lost in my fictional world or present in my reality, every person, conversation, challenge, pleasure, etc., is fodder to fuel a passionate life. On and off the page.

Where does your passion wholly come alive?

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Story of your life

Yesterday during my lunch hour I stopped at the grocery store. The plan was to run in and out, drop the groceries at home and grab my yoga gear. Often when I shop at my neighborhood haunt, I bump into people I know—mostly acquaintances I’ve made over the years as I’ve patronized the establishment. This time was no exception. As I navigated the aisles, I engaged with the scanner who continues to undergo treatment for lung cancer, the produce clerk who might be a little smitten and gives me outstanding deals on grapes, and finally the checker who is the epitome of grace under fire. I know, because I am frequently the culprit who causes transaction issues. Although my trip took longer than anticipated, maybe something I said lifted one person’s spirits. Or the proffered hug was exactly what the doctor ordered. Perhaps a kind word pacified an ornery customer. Life is not one big random coincidence, but a passionate story we write.

What’s your life’s story?

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An amazing life

I spent the past 31 days reciting a positive affirmation each morning. I practice Bikram yoga, attend church, volunteer my time, share laughter with friends and family, work in a field I’m passionate about and engage in fulfilling hobbies. I wake up every day and choose happiness, yet I seem to be missing something. Through Family Share and its 15 steps to ensure an amazing life, however, I discovered a few missing links.

1. Connect with yourself and others
2. Live in the present
3. Always create
4. Cultivate an “attitude of gratitude”
5. Choose a mentor wisely
6. Give your body the gift of rest and relaxation
7. Eat for happiness (skip processed foods, enjoy healthy fats)
8. Cleanse your body
9. Cleanse your mind
10. Cleanse your spirit
11. Establish healthy boundaries
12. Let go of anything that doesn’t serve you
13. Set SMART goals (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, timely)
14. It’s a practice, not a perfect
15. Help others

Where do you miss the mark?

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net.