I came across this a few minutes ago and I thought that I would share it with you all. It certainly gave me something to think about.
Have a great and sober day,
Carol
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The Practice:
1. Spend 5 minutes at the beginning of each day remembering we all want the same things (to be happy and be loved) and we are all connected to one another.
2. Spend 5 minutes breathing in, cherishing yourself; and, breathing out cherishing others. If you think about people you have difficulty cherishing, extend your cherishing to them anyway.
3. During the day extend that attitude to everyone you meet. Practice cherishing the "simplest" person (clerks, attendants, etc.) or people you dislike.
4. Continue this practice no matter what happens or what anyone does to you.
These thoughts are very simple, inspiring and helpful. The practice of cherishing can be taken very deeply if done wordlessly, allowing yourself to feel the love and appreciation that already exists in your heart.
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Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind. ~Dr. Seuss
Thank you, Carol. This is indeed a sweet one. To cherish, what a term. It means so much more than just "to hold dear". It also can mean to hold close to one's heart, or feel a special and sacred connection with.
Even though it is part of my spiritual teachings, the interconnectiveness is not always easy for me to feel. I can intellectually know it, yet my heart will not feel it. I look at humanity, and mostly I feel sadness. I have to take the time to make a concentrated effort to feel the kinship and joy I know I should take to heart.
So often, we look down into the abyss, and see our reflections. Then fear overwhelms us, and we respond not in that loving way that cherishing holds for us, but in denial. It is so much easier to deny that fear and lash out, like, denial is this wall that will keep us safe. For me, I find that it is in incorporating and walking with or thru the fear, leaves my heart open and free from the denial. But it is a constant challenge. Fear is what we know, so it can be more comfortable.
But the ability to cherish is tied in so closely with acceptance, isn't it? I really like this post....thank you. Chris
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"Never argue with an idiot... They'll drag you down to their level and beat you with experience..."
