Better life

Recent research stated that connecting with friends, family, neighbors is a sure fire way to prevent depression. Today, three daughters called, a brother emailed me, and several friends connected with me. I am blessed and know that life is good. I hope your life is filled to overflowing with meaningful connections. If not, start connecting. It will make all the difference for you and for those with whom you connect.

Think about the things you used to worry about. When I was younger, I was worried about getting good grades. I worried about hitting a curve ball. When I was in the Army, I was worried about how tight I made my bed. When I was married and we were raising five daughters, I wondered if we’d have enough money until the end of the month. Funny how we worry about lots of things and worry never solved a single one of them. Hard work did. Although, I never learned to hit a curve ball no matter how many practice pitches my dad tossed my way. I’m not going to worry about COVID-19. I’ll do my best to do the right things. I’m not going to worry about the election. I’ll get informed and vote my conscience. I’m feeling better already.

My day’s not half over. I made a check list and I haven’t hit one of them. Right from the get go unexpected events and calls took my life in a direction I didn’t foresee. I can fight it or enjoy the ride. I think I’ll grab a Texas sized glass of iced tea and enjoy the ride. My credit card will have to wait to get paid (LOL). Have the best day ever.

There’s light years of difference between living in a house and living in a home. A home is a place where I feel welcome. It is a place of safety and refuge. It is a place where I am loved as I am, bruises, scrapes, scars and all. A Home is a place of love and forgiveness. It’s not the size of the house that’s important. It’s the size of the hearts inside the house that make it a home.

Can’t wait until the COVID-19 epidemic is finally over? I’m right there with you. We’re in it together. When I connect with friends, family, and neighbors the world seems a bit brighter, the sky a bit bluer, and a gentle breeze picks up. I think I’ll FaceTime a friend when I finish this post. We’re a day closer to a vaccine. Hang in there.

Thoughts come and go. I can’t control them. I’ll let the negative ones pass on through. I’ll welcome positive, love-filled, and optimistic thoughts with open arms and tell to bring their friends.

There are a lot problems in our world. For every problem there are a hundred good things happing. For me, I have great daughters who stay in touch. I have neighbors who care. I see men and woman, boys and girls trying their best to work through the pandemic. Kindness abounds. Good things are happening. That’s where I’m putting my attention.. 

Life becomes simpler when I focus on what I need instead of what I want. In those moments of clarity I glimpse the peacefulness in a blue sky. I enjoy the warmth of the Texas sun. I watch the birds playfully dart in and out of the bird feeder. I enjoy a conversation with a friend over iced tea. Grateful for these wonderful gifts. They’re just what I needed.

The talking heads on TV or radio won’t grab hold of me. I think I’ll find a great playlist and move feet to the beat.

Freedom happens when we can look in the mirror and accept all our imperfections and love the person we see in the mirror exactly as he or she is. When that happens, everything changes. We no longer have to chase the false illusion of perfection, nor the illusion of trying to fit the image others have for us. We are free. Enjoy your freedom.