Inspirations and Articles

"Live out of your imagination, not your history." ~~Stephen Covey

What inspires you? I have discovered that change is easier if I draw from that which inspires me. What gives you energy? Perhaps music, a lovely sunset, or walking on a beautiful day? When we are on a journey to find true happiness, questions like these can be helpful.

How often are you still and silent? Do you set aside a time for yourself each day to connect with your inner spirit? Are you often simply doing rather than enjoying what you are doing? I read a book a few years ago about a lady who lived for a short while with an Amish family. Many aspects of their culture seemed so foreign to her modern lifestyle. The part of the book that impacted my life and inspired me the most spoke of finding pleasure in whatever task you are doing at the moment.

I observed this type of mindset last summer as I watched my eighty-three year old father in law doing the dishes by hand. I said, "Dad, why don t you let me do that? I can just put them in the dishwasher." He gave me a gentle, warm smile and said, "But then I wouldn't be able to enjoy the feel of the warm sudsy water on my hands, or hear that nice squeaky clean sound the dishes make when I rinse them." Silly me. I was viewing the moment as simply a time to toss the dishes (carefully) into the dishwasher and get on with life. He was living. He was enjoying the task at the moment. "I can daydream while I am doing dishes and watch the birds feeding from the birdfeeder you gave mother and me last year ," he said. Was it wisdom that comes with age that gave him this perspective? I m not sure. But, what I am sure of, is the impact that such a simple moment had on my life.

When we left at the end of our three-week visit, they thanked us for all we had done to help them during our stay. I thanked them for all they had given me. "What on earth did we give you?" , Mom asked. "Examples." , I said. Their faces showed the questions that were on their minds. "Thanks," I said as I gave them both a hug, "for reminding me of the simple joys in life."

Musical Inspiration

Music is a very important part of my life. I am often inspired by either the lyrics or the tune of a song. But every once in a while a song comes along that has it all. No matter what style of music you enjoy I suggest listening to "I Hope You Dance" by Lee Ann Womack. I hope it not only inspires you but I hope you dance!

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