Simple Gifts
Yesterday, I was driving in my car on the way to work, and the radio was playing a song that I liked. In that moment, I settled in, dancing a bit in my seat and singing along, enjoying the beautiful day and my fun car. In that moment, I had absolutely everything that I needed and I folded myself into a moment of joy.
This made me think about how to integrate such joy into my day on a more regular basis. I have been lucky enough to have what sometimes feels like an overwhelming schedule recently because we have a new house, are trying to sell our existing house, and are getting ready to go on the Camino! Awesome things, for sure, but, along with my regular responsibilities, I have been often feeling like the world is a bit too much. What a gift, really, as I love to observe when life feels difficult and then think of ways to get out of that sticky feeling so that I can share what has worked for me with others.
So, yesterday, it was a simple song, the car ride and the sun on my face. I realized that sometimes when the to-do list gets long, the best thing to do is to stop for a moment and just notice a simple beauty. It is everywhere if you look for it. Looking out the window right now, for example, I see a zillion shades of green, a moth flew by, and I can hear the gentle hum of some happy insects out there. Maybe you are inside and can’t see out - can you close your eyes and feel the sweetness of your breath? How about actually looking at your food for a moment before biting in? There are a million ways to do it. Maybe, like me, you need a more dramatic nudge like a favorite song, but the key is in remembering to look up. Nothing tricky required, no special equipment, the potential for joy, or at least peace, is all around if you only stop to look.
Copyright 2019 Nancy C Murray
Nancy C Murray is a yoga teacher, yoga therapist, Reiki master and spiritual leader. She leads public and private yoga classes and healing sessions and also retreats and transformational journeys.
