hope

My husband and I were talking this morning about optimism and pessimism and it got me to thinking. Depending where you fall – optimist or pessimist – what does it take to feel different or make a difference? How do I let my light shine?

I think of the Jimmy Buffett song “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes” where he says “nothing remains quite the same…..and if we couldn’t laugh we would all go insane”. Just based on recent events of devastating fires and shootings in my home state Colorado – it’s crazy out there. Why would I even want to try? Sounds like it would be better to just find a remote island somewhere and park myself for the duration.

But I came across truly inspiring videos I wanted to share with you of two people SHINING their light – putting themselves out there and demonstrating the will to live their lives fully. I noticed how compelling their attitudes were though different.

No blame – no excuses. Human beings are a truly incredible species capable of doing so much. Maybe that’s the reason we’re here living through these life experiences – how are we going to respond (attitude) to the good and likewise the bad because there’s no escape of it no matter who you are?

If your first instinct to a roadblock is to respond negatively, you just add to the drama and anger that’s already there. If your first instinct is to respond positively, there’s a shift and change to the norm no matter how slight – a glimmer of hope and possibility. Go for the positive. What are your thoughts on attitudes?

Pat – from the ol’ kitchen table

Here we are this evening poised at the edge where the years collide with one another. We are reminiscent of what took place in 2007 and hopeful when ringing in 2008. Some of us will be sad to see 2007 go and others will be glad and look forward to a new beginning in 2008.

For me personally, I have some things to be thankful for in 2007 but am one of the ones looking forward to a new beginning in 2008 and I don’t want to carry over those things I had difficulty with in 2007 that I still need to learn even though I know it doesn’t work that way. I’m looking forward to a fresh new beginning – no diets, no resolutions – just being free and appreciating life on this path I have chosen. It has not been an easy road and I know a lot of it I’ve made harder for myself when I could have chosen differently.

In 2008, I want to continue to feel love for myself the way God feels love for me; to continue learning my full potential and shine in it and not shrug and make excuses for it; to live in the realization that I am a creation of God and to express that in the best way I know how. I have hope in this new beginning.

I know there are those of you around the world who are experiencing a gamut of changes on the crest of this New Year. And some of you may need some hope in the process. There is a beautiful little story about Hope called 4 Candles (by braveheartlove on YouTube). Sometimes, when we feel like we’ve lost it all, this little movie clip is a reminder that as long as we have Hope we can always rekindle Peace, Faith, and Love.

It only takes a kind word or gesture to give us hope and make us feel like we count. Unfortunately, when we’re in those states when we need hope the most, our thoughts and feelings are not aligned with all that’s possible. That’s when we need each other’s help.

So, as this New Year rings in this evening be happy, be hopeful for all the new possibilities and share that hope with someone. You might be the one spark they needed to begin 2008! Happy New Year – be safe and may you all be blessed with all that God has for you!

From the kitchen table – Pat
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Acknowledgements: "Four Candles" by braveheartlove on Y more...