Wednesday, August 20, 2014

In the Moment

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I often say that there's more to a power pantry than just whole, healthy foods. Life deals us curves and valleys that we have to maneuver through, and all that effort will definitely sap us of strength and peace of mind. But inner strength, focus and peace of mind are vital ingredients to living a wellness lifestyle, and fundamental to a power pantry, so how do we find them?

To reset my attitude and recenter on what's important, I often try to 'see with new eyes'. What is right in front of us that we should really value and regard much more highly than we do? Maybe it's something we've valued in the past, but it's become commonplace and just doesn't have that zing for us any more. Challenging ourselves to see the romance in everyday things can be a great way to reset our perspective. All we need to do is remind ourselves to savor and linger and appreciate.


What about a beautiful sunrise, the rustling of leaves in a breeze, a foal and its mother in a pasture? Or how about an icy drink on a hot day, the smell of flowers as you walk by, the crunchy sweetness of fresh grapes, holding hands with a loved one? Even the peace and tranquil lostness we can find by sitting in total silence for a while. All these things can bring a great blessing in the moment, and help us find a much needed wellness reset.



I live in Lancaster County, PA, and we have more than our share of gorgeous farms, historic buildings, and well-tended landscapes, that frame wonderful sunrises and sunsets. But to me, those are the easy blessings. What about taking a gratitude and appreciation break every day, just in the middle of nowhere? What have we been blessed with that really carries us through our days and weeks and months? Again, seeing common parts of our lives with new eyes can offer a valuable reset for today.

And maybe we generate enough peace of mind and good will in our own lives that we have some to share with those around us. With the turmoil of war and disease and economic frustration, it's obvious that the world can use more peace, and peace of mind.

So where can you see with new eyes, savor a blessing in the moment, and maybe lift your mood and someone else's?


By the Way


I read a great book about 10 years ago called Experiencing God, which offers tremendous guidance. One thing the author, Henry Blackaby, says is, "Don't just do something, stand there!" I love that little twist on an old admonition, encouraging us to linger, slow down and call a pause in the action. Surely there is plenty of time to get everything done that needs attention, and maybe what's needed right now is some time to regain perspective.






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