There’ve been decades when I moved through life at warp speed, by necessity. Now, cognizant of the fleeting nature of time, “where am I rushing to?” is a question I often ask myself. Although COVID-19 has changed realities significantly for many of us, dashing through life still seems like an embedded part of our culture.
As a proficient multi-tasker, I often have multiple (incoherent) balls in the air simultaneously, even though I recognize that I’d probably be more fully present by doing one thing at a time. (I’m a work in progress.)
Many people get to the end of this life, realizing that not only haven’t they taken the time to smell the proverbial roses (oranges or brownies), they haven’t even looked for them. And, racing through life isn’t the only less-than-healthy thing we humans do.
Pondering that awareness opened my mind to other practices that could bring more balance to the days, weeks, or years we have left.
“Let it be, let it be, let it be, yeah, let it be
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be.”
(Paul McCartney)
Twenty Thoughts for 2020
• don’t judge people by how they look or talk (sadly, this is pervasive)
• how we interact with the world dictates how others react to us; what are your actions saying?
• practice voluntary simplicity—choose to live with less to live more
• items don’t need to be expensive to be valuable—what would you try to save in a flood or fire?
• laugh as often as possible—it releases endorphins
• don’t try to do everything flawlessly—paint, sing, build a lego house, try something new, be an adventurous creator
• many things are just not that serious (especially in hindsight)
• do less of what leaves you feeling “bad”—that seems obvious, but it bears repeating
• speak with integrity and say what you mean—even when it’s tough
• perfection is the enemy of getting things done (I’m sometimes guilty of this)
• minimize electronic stimuli—spend time with a human instead
• try not to take things personally—what others say is a projection of their realities
• what makes your spirit sing, do more of—earth time is not limitless
• practice immunity to the negative opinions of others—yep, easier said than done, but worth it
• don’t make assumptions—instead lean into truly knowing
• look for the light in the dark—especially when it feels like you’re wearing blinders
• the first draft is rarely the last—the story keeps changing
• be gentle with yourself, like you’d be with someone you love
• maximize your happiness, kindness, and health; you deserve that
• how you use this week, this day, this hour changes life—yep, the one you’re living right now
“And when the night is cloudy there is still a light that shines on me
Shine until tomorrow, let it be.”
Blog: peacefullhome.com
Twitter:@kaymclane
Instagram: @peace_full_home
Facebook: facebook.com/kayspeacefullhome
peace full home®—intentional living 
As a fellow journey woman, I am also a work in progress living a simple life. You have inspired me to go listen to “Let it Be”.
LikeLike
Thank you, Liz. The journey is easier when we walk alongside like-minded people. Thank you for being one of them in my life.
LikeLike
I just read through this a second time – wise & worthy words. Thank you.
LikeLike
Thank you for following Peace Full Home, Betsy!
LikeLike