Compassionate and Calm: Part Two
Having an attitude of gratitude. The cup is half full. The world is beautiful. Life is good.
Susan Dermond calls this "upward thinking". And recommends it for children.
You feel calmer. You feel part of something bigger. You are less anxious about the present challenges.
I have to choose to relax. Toenjoy endure something seemingly very silly because it brings him joy. And this helps me think about others. Because I'm being {trying to be} patient. I'm letting someone else slow down and enjoy.
Because it really is in the moments. The moments that could either be stressful or inspiring. You are in charge of your response. Think positive. Be inspired.
Susan Dermond calls this "upward thinking". And recommends it for children.
"Children are more relaxed and loving if, whenever possible, we keep their attention away from violence and degrading topics."Works for me. Haven't you noticed that feeling of peace and tranquility that surrounds you when you are in nature? When you see someone do a good deed?
You feel calmer. You feel part of something bigger. You are less anxious about the present challenges.
"Paying attention to the beauty and kindness surrounding us develops sensitivity and gives a calmer outlook on life because it brings our focus to the moment, away from anxiety about the future or past."
"When your thoughts are geared in a positive direction, your feelings are peaceful." --Richard CarlsonToday I struggled to appreciate the small joy of a free newspaper. Or two or three. It's the post office and the grocery store. Every time. We've got to check each one to see if it'll open and take at least one of all the free ones. The Nickel. Auto Choice. He puts them in his mini grocery cart, then in a bag, then to the car.
I have to choose to relax. To
"Choosing to appreciate the small joys in life helps children (and adults!) to relax and expand their awareness outside of themselves. Parents and teachers can encourage this attitude by their own example and by playing games of positive thinking."Oh, sometimes it's draining, yes. Absolutely. It's hard work training my brain to be positive. And optimistic. But it'll pay off. Living with positive people is a lot easier than living with pessimists. Having children that think about others, giving them the chance to experience joy...that's priceless.
Because it really is in the moments. The moments that could either be stressful or inspiring. You are in charge of your response. Think positive. Be inspired.
"When you put your child to bed, lie beside her and ask her to share the best or most inspiring moment of her day. Then share yours. Or you begin and then let her tell you hers."