I am responsible for how others treat me because even when it is uncomfortable, I am able to say, “No.” and “Yes” when I deserve something. I used to be a peacemaker and just created anxiety and chaos for myself and others. The new me TRIES to ask herself, “Is this my business?” 99% of the time, it isn’t.
When we act confidently, we can support others without doing whatever it is, for them.
Photo taken in Berkeley, CA
Tonight is the Democratic debates between potential nominees for president. It is always an attraction to watch politics in full swing.
I thoroughly enjoyed watching the Republican debates from the comfort of my couch, texting my son back and forth with opinions and observations.
A good politician is a great communicator and must earn our respect and trust. Many people with fixed ideas cannot think outside the box but I believe with Trump, the conversation has blown wide open. Good. It’s about time. An example of how you can pluck a positive and gain insight out of every situation.
A great politician is appropriate and relates honestly and efficiently. They can allow the past to influence and instruct the present moment but also have acquired new skills and solutions that clarify everything for everyone.
An exceptional politician untangles misunderstandings, resolves potential disagreements quickly, assumes nothing and sees every encounter as an opportunity to behave with integrity, intelligence, logic and heart.
A Tree with attitude at water’s edge in Lake Merritt.
My attitude needs to reflect the wonderful divine specimen that I am. When I forget my spiritual essence, I easily lose my footing and my healthy perspective.
The acceptance that others are on their own journey as well is a reminder of my own purpose.
My best attitude is having self-respect AND treating myself and others with kindness.
I am grateful.
Unless you have a phobia, normal fear is pretty human and an everyday feeling. The key word here is “feeling”. Feelings and emotions come and go and you can choose to give them power or change them. Sentiments are not true unless you make them so by your actions.
The antidote to fear is faith, but also humor and lighheartedness.
If you can find something to laugh about your situation then you will survive.
The more joy you keep in your heart, the less concerned with fear you will be.
As you discard the old patterns of fear, a new, courageous self emerges.
The Fear of Failure
“To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did.”
Unknown
Your attitude towards yourself affects everything; how you perceive a conversation, your body language and how you interpret the world around you. Check your self. Where is your head?
If you are emotionally strong then you have a lot to offer.
You are a miracle of life and it is a gift.
You count and contribute in your own special way.
If you are well-read, then you are an extra-ordinary person.
You have strong values (whatever they are) and many varied talents, after all, you have survived this long.
I am not a cynic by nature and I am not a devious person. I actually feel I crave truth and authenticity, in myself and others. I just don’t respect dishonesty. I don’t mean being in denial or not realizing something yet, I am talking about being blatantly lied to with the intention of deceiving and withholding the truth.
I lose trust if I find out or suspect I have been lied to. When the truth is revealed (and it always is sooner or later), my walls and antenna come up.
Although I know I have been emotionally dishonest – seeking love and approval everywhere externally – I now look within. In the past, I learned that sacrificing yourself to please others was noble. It is different than being of service. Being of service implies you are doing it without expecting anything in return.
I absolutely do not support those who deflect responsibility onto others or elsewhere anymore and I am not afraid to speak my truth anymore either.
Today is 40 years since I answered, “yes!” when M popped the “Do you want to go steady?” question.
Happy Anniversary!
We were just kids but we must have been on the right track because here we are and I couldn’t love, respect or admire and appreciate my husband and marriage more than I do today. And probably more tomorrow.
Through thick and thin, literally and metaphorically.
Loveya.
Picture courtesy of ML.
It is always good to come home after a short trip. Cindi danced and wagged her tail for me. My husband and I back together, sharing stories and catching up.
Love you guys
When I am about to fall off to sleep and I have a wonderful book to read and all is well in my world and I have had a good day, I feel calm and serene.
When everything is running smoothly in my home and every area is decluttered and shiny and clean, I feel calm and serene.
When I am researching, writing or reading towards my many interests, I feel calm and serene.
When I am amongst positive, supportive, loving people I trust, I feel calm and serene.
When I am attending a fine performance, taking in exhibits at a museum or in the middle of a forest, I am calm and serene.
Scenes of San Francisco from the very center of Berkeley.
Getting up really early, mañana en la mañana, finishing the packing, walking Cindi and then taking off for Berkeley before traffic gets crazy in LA. I don’t want to forget : Snacks for the road, water, my last minute imaginings I need and to get some gas. Being laid back lately has made me a little not so ready for stuff like travel the way I used to be. In the past, I would have had the car packed. Things just got in the way all week and especially today. Things that had to be attended to, right now.
Amidst the chaos, I took care of myself and cleared my day except for a professional, new hairstyle and coloring. I am so glad I did. J, my trainer gave me this referral. It is unusual for me to be so happy with a stylist and that is why I never go. I am glad I kept this appointment.
Do something special for yourself today, whenever you read this. Delete something and add whatever will perk you up whether it be an activity or relaxation. It is a gift to self and others.
