 Discovery The view from my window behind my laptop is fascinating. When I look out, I see a cluster of bush leaves that have grown to reach the branches of the old tree behind it. I almost feel as if I’m living in a treehouse, something I’ve wanted since childhood. Of course, I have lots of neighbors in the treehouse. There are chipmunks, squirrels, a variety of birds, and neighborhood cats, etc. And there are lots of movements from the floating bush. When the wind is strong, they almost try to come through the window. And when the breeze is soft, the branches do a slow dance. I am surprised to see the magnitude of the foliage because, during winter, the branches of the bush looked so dead, I thought we would have to hire someone to take it down. So many times, when we think we have lost something, God finds something better for us. And we realize that it was just a matter of time before we see the good again. I finally have been given the treehouse that I wanted as a child--perhaps because now I can appreciate it.  *********************************************************************************** Freedom I suppose many of us are not feeling the freedom that goes with this holiday. We have been confined by the time spent inside when it is beautiful outside.Some of us feel trapped by our masks and distance from one another. And we may feel that circumstances have left us with lives out of control and wondering what will happen next.. The above picture, in a sense, is one of genuine freedom. Perhaps it is part of a bucket list that the two people take seriously. Maybe they are nearing the end of a beautiful friendship and want one more of the good-times.Maybe,with great effort, they have finally made it to the beach. They seem to be seriously enjoying, despite any consequences. Don't you wonder what each one is thinking? Freedom is something that is felt within and is related to trust. So,who do you trust? Is it your own judgement and self-esteem that can handle whatever happens? Is it someone close to you? Is it God? The greater your trust,the greater your sense of freedom.Think about it...  ************************************************************************************************************************ Procrastination Do you ever feel stuck? I’m referring to the kind of “stuckiness” that keeps you in place, not knowing where to move next. There may be dozens of things that supposedly need to be done for one reason or another. You may even have a full To-Do list that is just begging for cross offs. And your mind keeps urging you to stop procrastinating. So, what's wrong? Fatigue? Depression? Laziness? Maybe even low blood sugar. Of course, nothing that a little treat and a nap wouldn't cure. Sure, it could be any one of these things and more. As a person who is a master at procrastination, I am well versed in the ways of one who is stuck. Sometimes I’ll take a break from some task and just sit down to watch a half-hour TV show before finishing. But crash, I'm asleep for two hours, and it’s too late to complete my task. Now, you would think that someone who does this regularly would come up with a plan to avoid this situation. But no, not me. In fact, I have numerous excuses for my procrastination. I won’t go into the psychological reasons, but something is definitely causing my lack of task orientation. I know that I am supposed to be more of a right-brain thinker (another excuse?) Right-brain thinkers are more creative, visual, daydreaming, intuitive, with emphasis on possibilities, etc. Left-brain thinkers are more detailed, logical, mathematical, with emphasis on strategies, etc. So, I guess if you are a right-brain person, getting stuck could be an easy habit. If you are a left-brain person, you will probably get the tasks done with more ease. Ok, now have you ever heard of rationalization? Be peaceful in the now… Jeanne  **************************************************************************** Let it Be... I was sitting in silence,wondering what the subject of this blog might be. For some reason, the above phrase from an old Beatles song jumped into my head. It occurred to me that the concept of "let it be" could refer to much more than in the original song lyrics. I wonder if the phrase “Let it Be” could appropriately be used in a positive way that would help simplify life. For example: Let it be kindness when I see another person Let it be the absence of worry Let it be beautiful things that I see Let it be that I am gentle when dealing with a difficult situation Let it be that my integrity continues to be Let it be mindfulness I do on a day that is chaotic Let it be love that I sincerely give Let it be God who I seek in my life’s journey I could go on with many more reminders designed to deepen perspective on positive living. And probably, if you go deep inside yourself, you will discover a silent place where stress is gone. Just let it be and peace will follow. Jeanne *************************************************************************************************************** | |
Only One Thing…
Do you remember being a child and having the ability to be spontaneous
and free, to experience a sense of wonder and appreciation? I can only speculate why so many adults simply give up on life when it comes to happiness, sit back and wait for happiness to suddenly occur--someday.
Many individuals have an unhealthy negative attitude that says I cannot change the world alone because I’m not strong enough or powerful enough to make any change. (I can understand that negative outlook with the way the world is today.)
But that’s not really true. Being able to have an impact in the world happens all the time. Everything you do and say, every choice you make changes the world. And the choices you make are where much of your power is. Where do you make your choices? In your mind.
Only one thing has to change for us to know happiness
in our lives: where we focus our attention.
---Greg Anderson
So, if you choose to be honest, empathetic, respectful of everyone, choose positive possibilities, and choose to spend quiet time listening to the voice within, you could make wonderful changes in the world.
Choose well…
*************************************************************************************************************
6/5/2020
Freedom from Stress
I’ll never stop being in awe of nature. Not necessarily with its' beauty, but also the remarkable ability to organize itself according to the seasons. It seems like it was only two weeks ago when the branches outside my office window were empty, dry, and completely dead. And I sat here contemplating who I could get to remove this dead fifteen-foot bush that covers this end of the house.
Last year the bush gave me numerous peaceful moments of God’s artistry. Birds were always in competition, jumping among the thick green branches, canvassing the area for potential nesting possibilities.
And the bush is back with a wonderful sense of privacy and inclusion of whatever written drama I wish to proclaim, in my blog, my books, or elsewhere. There is something about being close to nature that brings me closer to myself. The natural world never ceases to bring out the positive that general humanity has difficulty retaining. It regularly takes turns showcasing beauty in an organized pattern of quiet expression. Each tree branch, flower, flowering bush, and petal is slowly shifted with grace when a slight breeze comes through the area.
Natural scenery is a large part of the good stuff in life--what we often miss when we spend time with the unimportant, superficial, or mundane. It has become well-known that being in nature has been proven to remove the stress of life. It allows us to be good in our thoughts—the beginning of goodness in our actions.
It seems to me that nature is another blessing that moves us to seek the higher ground, to attempt to come closer to the best that is within us. And that can make all the difference...
5/29/2020
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Ok, it’s a hot day—the kind that weighs you down with heavy humidity and makes you either jump in water or stay in air-conditioning all day. It’s the heat that so many people couldn’t wait for last winter. It’s hot. It’s humid. It’s oppressive. Do you still like it?
Well, what kind of hot can you tolerate?: to be sweaty and overheated from a good workout, the dry, intense heat of an Arizona desert, or the heat of passion for a person, project, or belief?
The heat of passion can be good if it is managed in a positive way. It can give energy, purpose, and direction. But of course, if focused negatively, it can be a terrible source of evil that can bring down a nation one incident at a time.
But how about building up our humanity one incident at a time?
You can do it and only you in your unique way. The heat of passion can:help you:
---notice those around you who are in need or pain
---learn to be compassionate
---insert peace into a developing argument
---respect each individual, knowing that all lives matter
---develop pervasive gratitude for all you have been given
---grow in your singular creativity
---promote and appreciate what is positive in life
---spread integrity and kindness around with recklessness
---pick up someone who has forgotten how to care
And if it gets too hot to handle, try just sitting alone quietly in the coolness of
God’s love.
5/29/2020
*********************************************************************************
Ok, it’s a hot day—the kind that weighs you down with heavy humidity and makes you either jump in water or stay in air-conditioning all day. It’s the heat that so many people couldn’t wait for last winter. It’s hot. It’s humid. It’s oppressive. Do you still like it?
Well, what kind of hot can you tolerate?: to be sweaty and overheated from a good workout, the dry, intense heat of an Arizona desert, or the heat of passion for a person, project, or belief?
The heat of passion can be good if it is managed in a positive way. It can give energy, purpose, and direction. But of course, if focused negatively, it can be a terrible source of evil that can bring down a nation one incident at a time.
But how about building up our humanity one incident at a time?
You can do it and only you in your unique way. The heat of passion can:help you:
---notice those around you who are in need or pain
---learn to be compassionate
---insert peace into a developing argument
---respect each individual, knowing that all lives matter
---develop pervasive gratitude for all you have been given
---grow in your singular creativity
---promote and appreciate what is positive in life
---spread integrity and kindness around with recklessness
---pick up someone who has forgotten how to care
And if it gets too hot to handle, try just sitting alone quietly in the coolness of
God’s love.
********************************************************************************************
5/16/20
Who’s In Control Here?
There she was, complaining to anyone who would listen, answering each question of sympathy with still another blast of indignation. She even interrupted other conversations with her soapbox oratory. I mean it was embarrassing. Each time I would ask her to be quiet she would announce another terrible abuse, making it clear that I was the real cause of all her troubles.
The quivering canine in the corner sat in silence, playing a proper patient role. His Mom didn’t feel like she was at the center of chaos in this little corner of the world. She could look on with no responsibility at all and quietly be amused. And so smug…
Well, at least we were taken to a patient room quickly. They must have finally gotten this office organized. But did the verbal assault stop there? No way! Despite the lack of audience, my little feline friend kept steadily reminding me that this type of visit would not be tolerated today or in the future. After all, the place looked scary, smelled scary, had bad memories, and—oh yes, it was frequented by dogs. No, this was definitely a big mistake on someone’s part. I sighed, as I knew, once again, who was at fault.
“But it won’t be much longer and you like Dr. Tom.” (Isn’t it ridiculous what we say to try and soothe our furry “kids”?)
“Well, here’s the doctor now…”
SILENCE!
Complete and total quiet. Only a small head stuck under the crook of my arm. “She thinks she’s hiding, Doctor.”
Up she comes with a look that says, “I’m gonna get you for this. Just so he doesn’t stick that thermometer up my bu…but he’s doing it! Now you’re going to see a pout lady, like you’ve never seen before. Wait until we get home. I’ll never sit on your lap again.” Still, all is communicated in absolute silence. Oh, the power of a man with a white coat and letters after his name.
Finally, the ordeal is over and I hear Dr. nice guy pat her on the head and say,
“Well kitty, I think you deserve an A for good behavior.” (WHAT! Didn’t you hear her Doc? She screamed the whole way over here. I had to explain my way out of confrontations with a police cruiser, an animal shelter truck, and three male strays looking for some action. I couldn’t keep her quiet. She was driving me crazy…)
“By the way, Doctor, what do you think has been causing this problem since you say she is physically okay?”
“Stress.”
“Stress?!?” Great. She lives with a therapist.
“Meow”
********************************************************************************************
5/8/2020
Since Mother's day is Sunday, I would like to share something
I wrote as a gift for Moms:
In honor of all Mothers I want to say thank you:
for not only taking care of our scraped knees, but also for:
-comforting our bruised ego
-cleaning up after us
-letting us choose when you knew there was a better way
-staying up until we got home safely
-reminding us of what is important in life
-being such a good role model
-listening to our dreams (and nightmares)
-being the best cook in all the world
-designing all those costumes
-comforting us when we were sick
-looking the other way when we made a simple mistake
-covering up our social bloopers
-assuming our intentions were better than they were
-driving friends to countless activities
-covering us with a blanket when we fell asleep in a chair
-knowing just what we wanted for Christmas without asking
-putting up with all of our complaining
-listening to us even when you were tired
-for all of the hugs
-teaching us to care about others in need
-showing us how to be kind
-being patient with us during our anxiety-driven teen years
-asking our opinion when we were too young to know much
-always reminding us that you loved us
-giving us part of your piece of cake or pie because you knew we liked it
-teaching us to forgive others
-being calm when we needed a safe place
-letting us learn the musical instrument we wanted to play
rather than your favorite one
-holding us accountable for our actions while supporting us at the same time
-praying for us…always.
and especially,
for knowing that we love you… even though we haven’t said it often enough.
*********
(The above is a picture of my mother who raised ten children. I was one of the lucky ones.)
Have a wonderful weekend
Jeanne
************************************************************************************
5/2/2020
Please Pause...
It is sunny out today, one of the few days with anything other than another cloudy day. Strange how much the weather can have an impact on how we feel. Sunshine always seems to make us feel better. It can wake us up to a better day and give us a brighter view of the world. Somehow, on sunny days we have the energy and attitude to do more, be more, and love more. When someone says, “Have a good day…” it almost seems possible. Chronic pain is a little less and hope a little brighter..
I can’t help but wonder why we wait for sunny days in order to live more. What would happen if we could bring peace home by being at peace? What if we gave ourselves a small chance each day to just be in a temporary silent world? What if, no matter what the weather is, we would, for a few minutes, be silent and listen to the soft sounds of God’s voice within?
I have always been an advocate of the importance of "no demand" time. This is that rare but chosen time to be free of any expectations from others. It is silence in the chaos of life and rest for the weary. It is time where you can be reminded of what is important in life to you…a time to be real, authentic, and calm. It is a pause in a whirl-wind of constant expectations and other assignments and appointments you might have agreed to and placed yourself in--a pause from the hectic schedule of constant have to dos.(And, yes, they will return.)
It is always amazing how refreshing daily life can become with only a few minutes each day of no demand time…of personal silence in the form of mindfulness, meditation, or listening to God. Are you willing to pause?
Be good to yourself...
Jeanne
************************************************************************
Strawberries were too delicate to be picked by machine. The perfectly ripe ones bruised at even too heavy a human touch. It hit her then that every strawberry she had ever eaten—every piece of fruit—had been picked by calloused human hands. Every piece of toast with jelly represented someone’s knees, someone’s aching back and hips, someone with a bandanna on her wrist to wipe away the sweat. Why had no one told (me) about this before?
Alison Luterman, What We Came For
This brief passage from a book reminds me of the first thing necessary for genuine maturity and spiritual growth. Many of us lack compassion because we are not aware—or we may be aware of others but have put this awareness back in the "for reference" section of our minds. This is where it can easily be forgotten but can be brought to attention if some tragic experience occurs. We can feel the hurt or abuse of someone at that time. But that is usually temporary. Why does it take so long to learn compassion which goes beyond sympathy and empathy? Compassion has these also but includes some form of positive action.
A pastor once said that
Religion’s bottom line is loving action on
behalf of anyone in need of my presence.
Fr. Joseph Fata
There has been a lot of talk about heroes recently—those who have taken action
on behalf of society. Yes, they are heroes. And we can be also. I wonder what would happen if each one of us would live our lives with compassion on a daily basis. Wouldn’t that create many more heroes? It doesn’t take that much to do: a smile, a silent prayer, an acknowledgement of someone’s pain, a question that asks what you can do to help, etc. Mother Teresa has said we need to do small things with great love.
And that leads me to my favorite quote by Dr. Gerald Jampolsky:
Teach only love. The only time is now.
Peace be with you...
Jeanne
********************************************************************************************************
Since it is Good Friday for Christian Faiths and Passover for the Jewish Faith, I'm going to share something I wrote that is a reminder of what we are here for. The prayer itself is in bold and the other writing is an attempt at explaining...
Heavenly Father, life is your gift to us…
Have you considered what special gifts God has given to your life? Have you shown your gratitude for them? Do you realize how gifted you are even though you might be struggling with obstacles in your life right now?
You call us to share our lives in service to others…
Service begins with awareness of others’ needs. Compassion follows when we see everyone as children of God, and can be aware without any form of judgment. It is taking positive action for the sake of someone in need. Is compassion one of your ongoing ways of interacting with others?
Guide us as we choose each day to show your presence to all those we meet…
To live our Christian faith daily, we really do need to make a constant choice. We may want to show love to others, but it is very hard to be consistent, especially with those who do not love us in return or are strangers who are unlike us. Realize that we can always make a better choice.
Give us the courage to do whatever we can with whatever we have…
Although we can’t rid the world of poverty, pain, and political greed, there often is something we can do that will be a light in the darkness. And if we look, there is invariably someone around us who is in need of our sharing…even just a smile. Do you feel that you are doing whatever you can?
to bring your love to our community and the world…
Even though sometimes it may seem like being alone with no responsibilities would be ideal, part of our humanity is communal. We bring God’s love to others by the way we act towards them. We do this with kindness, humility, understanding, and sincerity.
And the only time is now…
Wishing you a Blessed Easter...
Jeanne
*******************************************************************************************
Hi,
For many of us, being at home continuously can be boring, and the present situation frightening. The following essay is a way to try and put things into perspective...
Life Insights
As we get older, what causes us to seek something more meaningful than the accumulation of stuff? And by stuff, I mean that almost daily collection of material items, social recognitions, elements of control, judgments, fears, disappointments, awards, money, etc.
Sometimes it seems that we have wasted energy on things like what people will think, how right and successful we are, and how far we have come financially and socially. And now they seem like such useless entities. All the interpersonal slights, anger, frustrations, and failures etc., suddenly seem to be pointless time wasters. And we are left wondering why we worried and put ourselves under stress.
Is the wisdom that supposedly comes with age an automatic oozing of common sense that tells us enough is enough? When will it be time to feel at peace? But one of the most difficult things in the world is to be at peace with oneself. To do this takes a lot of letting go and ego killing and getting rid of self-absorption. It’s amazing to realize the extent to which our egos have control over our lives. Much of our time, we are in fear because of it. The ego seems to keep us in a constant state of defensiveness, trying to justify our very existence.
If only we could know and believe how unique and worthwhile we are. To know what it means to be a child of the God who gives unconditional love. To understand that rules, regulations, and threats mostly come from other human beings who likely have and are playing the control game and are lacking in self-esteem.
It is always helpful to sit back and think of all the good things in your life with a sense of gratitude. We can leave all that negative stuff alone and decide to have a positive perspective on life now and know that it begins with kindness…
Be at peace,
Jeanne
PS: My latest e-book, Just Be...and Peace will Follow, is online and published by Brighton Publishing, LLC. It is a gift book for someone you may know or love. Check it out...
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Hi,
Like you probably are, I am staying at home to keep from giving and getting the recent virus that has taken over our lives. At first it may have felt like a dream come true to not have to go to work. Instead you could sleep as long as you wanted and just relax, watch television or play with your laptop/phone. Time to do anything you wanted… Right?
But I realized that I have literally been inside the house for almost three weeks. I have had the time to complete several tasks that have been put off for a long time. I did more cooking than I ever thought possible, and watched more television than I ever should have. I listened to God in meditation, but all I heard at first was, “Where have you been?”
If you are in the same situation as I am and are starting to feel bored, here are a few suggestions:
--try making a puzzle,
--give your plants some tender loving care,
--watch a few Hallmark movies instead of the news,
--do a hobby that was a favorite when you had the time,
--do some family games together, like Scrabble, Monopoly, etc.
--give yourself some meditation time,
--casually spend the time to enjoy your food,
--try a new recipe or learn to cook,
--be grateful if you have food in the house,
--do word puzzles,
--read a book you have been wanting to read,
--call your mother,
--think about your purpose in life,
--play with the dog or cat—they are ecstatic that you are home,
well, at least the dog is…
--pray—but remember to be silent and let God talk…
********************************************************************************
Hi...
The picture of daises is a symbolic gift reminding you that Spring will not be cancelled. If you feel stuck with no place to go, this might be a good time to explore some quiet space. (It will help you deal with all the negative changes in our lives right now.)
Silent places allow us to breathe deeply, to take in
little messages of self-respect from our inner selves.
They give us the gentle space to feel the basic
spiritual themes that will put us back on the path
when we are lost.
Robert J. Wicks
Have you ever tried sitting in a quiet space with a lit candle and no
other distractions? If not, try doing that (with or without the candle) and simply enjoy the quiet. Many people will use the time listening to the soft voice of God in prayer. But even without that, being in the quiet with no demands on you can do wonders. It helps put things in perspective and allows you to make easier decisions afterwards. It can be a place for hope---something that is desperately needed at this time of the Pandemic. And it can help remove some of the stress and panic that many people feel.
Hope you try it...
Jeanne
**************************************************************************
March sixth and we are all hopeful for Spring. Maybe the birds outshine us in hopefulness. They seem to be scampering, a strange movement for most birds. I see them as floating, gliding, foraging, flying, etc. but I usually don’t see them as scampering.There is lightness in their movements—almost as if they are saying, “Let’s get on with it, isn’t Spring here yet?” Or maybe that’s what I am saying. Of course, birds are anxious to get their families started. Who wouldn’t look forward to infants in the house?
However, right now the birds outside my window and I are stuck in a cold, rainy weather pattern that has been with us all winter. And when it hasn’t been raining it has been cloudy. The weather seems to reflect the state of society--not a pretty picture…
But the birds are happy and maybe that is a better sign of faith. Unlike us, maybe they listen to God’s silent messages of hope. Maybe they are able to live in the present and look forward to the future knowing that God is always with them. After all, they do go about trusting that this or that will occur when needed, and there are always brothers and sisters to play with. But the birds are happy living in the now, always being aware of what is going on around them, careful not to miss the good things in life.
How about you and I? Do you think we could we do that?
*********************************************************************************
Following is a quote I came across a long time ago. Definitely something
to think about...
It can happen again.
To the Jews, the Blacks, the Hispanics, or any other identifiable group that an apathetic public is willing to let be abused.
All it takes is the coming together of even a small number of people who require a scapegoat
to explain away their own insecurities, lack of abilities,
or low self-esteem,
and you have the environment for creating another Hitler.
Simon P. Sloan An Isolated Incident
***********************************************************************
I wonder when it was that I ceased to walk and move with the fluid motions of one who is young. It seems like only a few months ago those who were wise in the way the world works didn’t yet take me seriously.
It's almost as if we are deceived into thinking that there really is an optimal time in life when we have the power to function at our best. But in reality, just when our minds and hearts finally begin to feel relaxed with explaining old insecurities and we can start to smile at ourselves lovingly, the body decides to go on strike one department at a time. And so we go from not having control because of our youth to not having control because of our failing body parts.
Right between adulthood and old age someone needs to invent a longer, more recognizable time period during which we can feel both healthy and secure--a time when, at least for part of a lifetime, we can sense that we are winning the struggle.
Just think about it...During that special extended period of ideal life we wouldn't have to worry about so many things that seem to throw us a curve at other times. We wouldn't worry, for example, about what other people think or about trying to impress anyone. We wouldn't be afraid to stand up for our rights as consumers, citizens, women, people with disabilities, people with racial, cultural or other differences.
If there were this extended time period in life when we felt in control, we could walk with our head held high and the rest of the body in perfect coordination. We could actually participate in all of the activities that the mind says are interesting and amusing.
And we wouldn’t have to live life on the defensive. There would be no need to blame others or try to change them. If we felt comfortable with ourselves for this extended period of time, we could allow others to be themselves…with no demands from us. Also, wouldn’t it be wonderful to not feel obligated to do something we really didn’t want to do? Just imagine feeling comfortable saying “No” at times when someone puts on the pressure instead of struggling to come up with an excuse.
Oh yes, there’s the fatigue aspect. We wouldn’t be nearly as tired because we wouldn’t be in that state of fight or flight all of the time. We would be happy simply being ourselves regardless of the behavior of others. If there were this period in life when we felt comfortable with ourselves, we could perform at our best, live our values and ideals, be good to ourselves and to others, and stop fighting a self-imposed system of constant disappointments.
But now that I think of it, whoever said we were supposed to fight our way through life? Perhaps maturity is really nothing more than learning how to flow…
It's almost as if we are deceived into thinking that there really is an optimal time in life when we have the power to function at our best. But in reality, just when our minds and hearts finally begin to feel relaxed with explaining old insecurities and we can start to smile at ourselves lovingly, the body decides to go on strike one department at a time. And so we go from not having control because of our youth to not having control because of our failing body parts.
Right between adulthood and old age someone needs to invent a longer, more recognizable time period during which we can feel both healthy and secure--a time when, at least for part of a lifetime, we can sense that we are winning the struggle.
Just think about it...During that special extended period of ideal life we wouldn't have to worry about so many things that seem to throw us a curve at other times. We wouldn't worry, for example, about what other people think or about trying to impress anyone. We wouldn't be afraid to stand up for our rights as consumers, citizens, women, people with disabilities, people with racial, cultural or other differences.
If there were this extended time period in life when we felt in control, we could walk with our head held high and the rest of the body in perfect coordination. We could actually participate in all of the activities that the mind says are interesting and amusing.
And we wouldn’t have to live life on the defensive. There would be no need to blame others or try to change them. If we felt comfortable with ourselves for this extended period of time, we could allow others to be themselves…with no demands from us. Also, wouldn’t it be wonderful to not feel obligated to do something we really didn’t want to do? Just imagine feeling comfortable saying “No” at times when someone puts on the pressure instead of struggling to come up with an excuse.
Oh yes, there’s the fatigue aspect. We wouldn’t be nearly as tired because we wouldn’t be in that state of fight or flight all of the time. We would be happy simply being ourselves regardless of the behavior of others. If there were this period in life when we felt comfortable with ourselves, we could perform at our best, live our values and ideals, be good to ourselves and to others, and stop fighting a self-imposed system of constant disappointments.
But now that I think of it, whoever said we were supposed to fight our way through life? Perhaps maturity is really nothing more than learning how to flow…
*************************************************************************************
Probably the hardest transition to make is the change that is necessary to become a better you. It takes a lot of courage to keep striving to be the real you, the best you possible, your authentic self.
I sometimes wonder if we are ever committed for life. Oh sure, we think that we have made life commitments, maybe in relationships, religious beliefs, or life goals, etc. But how many stay the course? How many actually develop even better relationships or actually grow closer to God’s message of love, or continue to work on those life goals?
In reality we are almost constantly distracted by so much overload that there is no time to step back and put priorities in order. It seems there is little time for finding a sense of personal peace. And this is what is needed most for developing the really good things in life like compassion, understanding, simplicity, gratitude, love, and gentleness.
Most people make the mistake of thinking that if only they had enough of something or were in the right situation, then they could be at peace. But it appears to be the other way around—it is when we are personally at peace that we are most capable of being our best or truest self. It is when we are at peace that we are most likely to have our priorities in order and are able to more easily follow our commitments to quality living.
And a quality life journey has nothing to do with accumulating things or being overly busy with urgent unimportant things that distract, and overwhelm us. The real priorities may lie with spending time (perhaps in silence, prayer, or meditation, etc.), in order to find the simplicity and direction of personal peace.Then everything else falls into place and we can get up and successfully continue to walk on our committed life journey, remembering that love is gentle lesson to learn.
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Many people wonder how St.Teresa of Calcutta was able to consistently show so much love to each individual she met. In answer to this question she apparently said that she followed a "simple path". This is my adaptation of her answer written in the form of a prayer:
God, your path is really a simple journey...
help us to understand that:
it is in silence where we will discover prayer;
it is in prayer that we will find faith;
in faith we will know love;
and through love will come the willingness
to serve others...
and the result of service
is peace.
Jeanne Adams
********************************************************************
I am often fond of saying that life is one long lesson in humility.
Well, recently I was once again reminded of this truth when I made a somewhat disparaging comment about my slight annoyance with someone’s behavior.
It wasn’t even like me to notice, much less make a comment. I thought (too easily) that I was a person who didn’t judge others. I’ve always agreed with and felt, like Pope Francis, “Who am I to judge?” And I tend to be a person who doesn’t talk very much. Also, compassion is extremely high on my bucket list of virtues I would like to aspire to on a consistent basis.
The humility part comes from being totally wrong about my assessment of the situation based on insufficient information and my jumping to conclusions. And so, I learned that I have a much longer way to go when it comes to actually growing in faith and maturity.
Peace,
Jeanne
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 Hello again… Just returned to my usual schedule, so I thought I could start again on my blog. Following is an exercise I used in several of my classes and this is a way of sharing: It is an exercise on what it might feel like to experience loss. (Author is unknown.) Here we go… ***First, write down 10 things that you most enjoy doing: Now cross out anything that you couldn’t do IF:
There are so many people who are experiencing many different types of losses eg. parents who have lost their children, individuals who have lost their health, those who have lost hope, safety, security, purpose, courage, or something to look forward to. The point is that feelings of loss occur much more and in many other ways than we realize. Their experience can also be helped by us in many ways. For example, just a smile to a stranger, simply acknowledging someone’s hurt, calling to check on someone, a short note sent in the mail, including them in an activity, remembering someone, or taking time to genuinely listen. Never underestimate what you can do to serve others. Much is determined by our ability to be aware and to care… Have a wonderful week. Jeanne _______________________________________________________________________ Just a note: I will be busy for the next few weeks, so there will not be blogs. I wish everyone a blessed Christmas and happy holiday... *************************************************** |
Hi there...
I think you have probably heard this one but I'd like to share it just in case:
I want to thank you, Lord, for being close to me so far
this day. With your help, I haven't been impatient,
lost my temper, been grumpy, judgmental,
or envious of anyone.
But I will be getting out of bed in a minute
and I think I will really need your help then.
-author unknown
I know this is meant to be humorous (and it is), but at this time of year, right before
the various holidays, eg. Christmas, it can be a serious plea for help because of the frantic activity we place ourselves in. What we seem to forget is that everything we do is a choice and although we want to be a part of something wonderful, often the commercial chaos overwhelms us and creates a great deal of pressure and stress.
Here are a few suggestions that research has found to be effective at reducing stress:
---spend a few minutes each day, or several times a day, and place yourself
in quiet...with no demands on yourself---even if the bathroom is seemingly the only place
to find quiet.
---walk outside in a city park or nature area and breathe slowly and deeply.
---concentrate on the reason for the season--where real peace can be found.
---try to fully experience togetherness, church services, special food treats,
presents---or at least the intention, decorations, etc.
---take time to be kind.
---pray for others who have less than you or are lonely, confused, hungry or in pain.
I could go on but I think you get the idea. Put your life into perspective,.. but know that you may
still need God's help...
**************************************************************************
The following interesting thoughts are from another unknown writer. I've adapted a few.
See if you agree:
I've learned...
that the best classroom
in the world is at the feet of an
elderly person.
I've learned...
that having an infant fall asleep in your arms
is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.
I've learned...
that being kind is more important
than being right.
I've learned...
that no matter how serious your life
requires you to be, everyone needs a friend
to act goofy with.
I've learned...
that a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.
I've learned...
that life is like a roll of toilet paper.The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.
I've learned...
that sometimes all a person needs
is a hand to hold and a listening heart to understand.
author unknown
and I've personally learned...
that everything other than love
is just clutter and fluff.
Peace,
Jeanne
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11/18/19
“But if I choose life, what would I do with it?”
The above question was asked of me by a very lonely and depressed woman on a hospital psychiatric unit.
I wonder how many other people feel the same way about living.
I wonder what became of the happiness skills we had as children---the ability to be spontaneous and free, to experience a sense of wonder and appreciation, a sense of discovery and awe. Why do so many adults simply give up on life, sit back and wait for happiness to happen someday?
How much happiness do you, in a sense, give up? Have you lost contact with the joys of living?
Try a simple exercise:
IMAGINE AN IDEAL DAY… If you could do anything you wanted all day, how would you spend your time? Write down 10 favorite activities that you see yourself doing on this ideal day, and then ask yourself: How many of these activities do I do in an average week? How much time do I spend on each activity?
Am I selecting happy times for me? Am I doing what is really important to me?
And if you choose life do you know what to do with it?
*********************************************************************
11/9/19
Ok, being an honest person, I have to admit that this is not something written in the moment. I actually wrote it awhile back. However, with the present drowning of "holiday" commercialism, it seems to fit with today's growing chaos...
Tell Me Again...
The world with its complexities appears to be escalating at too rapid a rate to maintain understanding. As soon as I think I understand one change, another inexplicable one takes place and I am left to simply scratch my head and wonder why. It seems that in the frantic race to be the latest, simplicity, common sense, goodness and quality have all taken a back seat, replaced by things that just don’t feel right. So, for the sake of those of us who haven’t kept up with the reasoning behind all that has changed in society, could you please try and explain?
For example, tell me again:
---Why natural beauty goes unnoticed or ignored, while garish and bizarre images
permeate our media.
---How all those insurance companies got their medical degrees.
---Why manufacturers continue to insult consumers by sneakily reducing the
volume of a product until the original size is called “double” with double the
price.
---How the economy can be doing so well when so many people have to hold two
minimum wage jobs in order to survive.
Please explain…
---Why we spray our lawns with toxic chemicals that harm children, pets, and
nature; or
---Why we completely destroy acres of trees in order to build a group of high priced houses on barren land, and then call the development “Woodland” Estates.
---Why, even with all the latest technology, the weather report still
seems to be wrong half the time.
And while you are at it, could you also tell me again:
---Why we seem to have lost our awareness of what is good and decent,
respectful and genuine.
---Why people do not listen the first time, why bureaucracies breed
incompetence, or why there are those who think that to love someone is to
control that person.
---When did shooting someone became the answer to everyday problems and greed replace integrity?
Try to explain…
---Why millions are spent on lighting up the sky for 10-minute spectaculars while
some of America’s children still go hungry.
---Why, when you finally become aware of what is really important in life, time
passes so quickly.
---How people can teach intolerance and hate, and then wonder why there is so
much violence, or what happened to getting to know your neighbor and being
there for each other.
And, remind me, once again, about the importance of:
---Having dreams...
---Believing that I am loveable and capable...
...And, learning how to be kind…
Please, tell me again
******************************************************************
11/2/19
In the moment I'm thinking about all those who may have lost perspective on life..).
I wonder now when it was that I ceased to walk with the fluid motions of one who is young. It seems like only a few months ago that I wasn't taken seriously by those who were wise in the way the world works.
It's almost as if we are deceived into thinking that there really is an optimal time in life when we have it all together. But in reality, it seems that just when our minds and hearts finally begin to feel comfortable with explaining old insecurities and we can smile at ourselves lovingly, the body decides to go on strike--one department at a time.
And so we unfairly go from not having control because of our youth to not having control because of our failing body parts.
Right between young adulthood and middle age someone needs to invent a longer, more recognizable time period during which we can feel both healthy and secure....a time when, at least for the moment, we can feel up to the struggle.
Peace,
Jeanne
You can reach me at jpwriters@aol.com
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 I Want to Get Off... 10/25/19 Have you ever watched an animal (e.g., dog or cat), sitting and just looking at the world around them? Have you noticed a bird simply sitting on a branch just observing life? Do you ever wonder what they are thinking? Even animals seem to take time to rest and reflect. Sometimes we find ourselves lost in an almost constant state of distraction. We go from being distracted by noise to distraction from over stimulation, or agitation from pain and fatigue. Demands on our time and multiple social expectations can lead to a robot-like existence. When this continues on a daily basis without relief, we can be left with feelings of being overwhelmed, embattled, and confused about life in general. Have you ever felt this way? Well, it seems like this might be a good time to stop the thrill ride and begin to treat the dizziness and confusion. This might be the time to look at life from a new perspective—a perspective of personal peace and simplicity. Mindfulness really does work. The short but regular time spent in silence and alone can help you look at life from a new viewpoint. It can simplify what seems overwhelmingly difficult and create a new you--someone who can answer daily demands with calmness and confidence. Just remember that now is the only real time. The past is just a memory and the future is in our imagination. Peace, Jeanne Questions, comments, suggestions? I'd love to hear from you, especially if you have any blog subjects that you might like. You can e-mail me at JPwriters@aol.com. ***********************************************************************************  10/20/19 Recently a lot has been said about clutter and its effect on those who are unable to control it. Sitting here (in the moment), I am aware of how easy it is to produce clutter without seeing it until it begins to overwhelm. As I look around my office, there are piles (neat piles) but so many that I don’t know what specifically is in them. In fact, it almost looks like a wanna-be professional hoarder. (I wonder what happened to my seeking simplicity and mindfulness). Yes, my piles seem to have purpose. But do my many projects and pending works justify this? It looks like an office of someone who may live in the moment, but is terribly disorganized in the moment. It is an affront to my integrity. So, what can I do to fix the situation? Well, I could diminish the piles by putting them all into one pile and create a pretend organized environment. Or I could stuff them all into bulging office files and never find them again. I could do mini fixes like stop paying bills, stop writing and submitting manuscripts, and take the time to finally put my recipe book together. Not gonna happen…all There are two days free, today and tomorrow, that have no commitments other than college football. Should I spend my time on Facebook and Pinterest or become the organized person I wish I were by clearing off some of the noncritical piles? Ok, help me, what do you think?… ************************************************************************ What are you looking for? In the moment I am thinking about the concept of happiness, peace of mind, and what really works to achieve them. Awhile back there was some research on what is absolutely necessary for peace of mind (happiness). Following is my adaptation of the factors that had the greatest number: 1. Shun suspicion and resentment. Keeping a grudge has been found to pull down happiness levels an average of 50 percent. 2. Live in the present. Most unhappiness comes from an unwholesome preoccupation with the mistakes and failures of the past. Forgive yourself for past mistakes. It is as vital to your happiness as forgiving others. 3. Don't waste time and energy fighting conditions you can't change There is little you can do to heal the incurable disease of a loved one, or change the personality of those with whom you live. So stop hitting your head against the wall. 4. When you find yourself in a state of emotional stress, reach out to others instead of retreating within and building a prison of loneliness. 5. Cultivate the old-fashioned virtues of love, humor, thrift and church attendance, etc. 6. Stop expecting too much of yourself. When there is too wide a gap between the standards you set for yourself and actual achievement, Unhappiness is inevitable. If you can't improve the performance, try lowering the demands instead. 7. Self-centered materialistic people score lowest on the Duke University tests for measuring happiness. While those are are high in altruism and wholesome religious attitudes generally come out with the top happiness ratings. Author unknown (There is much more about happiness in my book, HAPPINESS--Hidden in Plain Sight. It can be purchased through my website here.) As always, I wish you peace... Jeanne  ********************************************************************** Don’t you wish you could slow down the pace of life? It seems that this would be a good time for mindfulness and meditation, but it probably sounds like more work to some of you. I wonder how many approach anything new to them as an obstacle to be overcome. But mindfulness and/or meditation are designed to take away stress and to create personal peace.. Some people are afraid to let go and to just be. Some feel that if they stop accumulating pockets of stressful activities, they may realize how pointless these are. Other individuals are afraid to be alone even for a few minutes. And some seem to be misguided by our social network and have priorities mixed up. Whatever the reason, it is worth it to try—in a simple way. Give yourself only five minutes each day to just sit in a state of calm and peace with no thought to problems, events, relationships, meetings or appointments. Don’t plan dinner or the weekend... Get the point? If doing this occurs on a regular basis it is very possible that you will become closer to the really important things in life, and living will have more meaning. It may even bring you closer to God… Now is the Time | |
In the Moment...
 |  2/10/19 Hello again... I'm one of those people who rarely get frustrated and feel irritable about something negative in my life such as breaking something or making a mess and having to clean it up. I usually just go ahead and fix the situation. But today, when I came on line to copy a blog that I had just written yesterday, I found it gone, floating somewhere in space, and I was left frustrated by what happened. But being the practical human that I am, I finally realized that what must have happened is that I forgot to post it. Arrrgh!!!... So, what am I supposed to learn from this? Well, I guess my words are not as important as they might seem, and the world will certainly continue on without them. Maybe losing something is a way of taking the ego down a notch by pointing out what is not really important. So life goes on one moment at a time and living in the moment gives a chance to decide how to respond to frustrating situations, such as loss of our work. Every minute we have a choice... |