‘Automatically’ grateful!
April 2, 2011
Euphoria: ‘a mental & emotional state defined as a profound sense of well-being. Technically, euphoria is an affect, but the term is often colloquially used to define emotion as an intense state of transcendent happiness combined with an overwhelming sense of contentment.’ (Wikipedia)
I’ve been searching for an explanation re: my ‘overwhelming sense of contentment’. Nothing in my world has ‘externally’ changed. The man of my dreams didn’t appear; I didn’t win the lottery or begin writing my ‘best-seller’; there haven’t been any medical breakthroughs regarding the reversal of dementia or any celebratory announcements from anyone dear to my heart.
I can, however, highlight a couple of negative events in recent weeks – i) a few dear friends are experiencing ‘sad & difficult’ relationship break-ups & ii) I was subject to a few distorted perceptions (in a public forum) all in relation to being the ‘single’ ex girlfriend.
In fact, it’s probably these same events that have unintentionally provided insight into what lessons I have learnt over the years. Internally something has changed this week – my level of gratitude. I am truly grateful that my headspace automatically takes me to a place of empowerment; a place of positives. It didn’t happen overnight, but it did happen.
In contrast, I have observed the negative experiences of others & can only imagine the thoughts that are limiting them. Without going into personal details, the distorted realities of others have been their real true enemies. Feelings of helplessness occur when we hold someone else responsible for the way we are feeling. I’m not suggesting that they have haven’t endured negative experiences. I’m also not suggesting that they ignore these challenges; but I do want to point out that their energy focusing on helplessness will not move them forward…. It will ultimately hold them back. Often, attachments to outdated beliefs are responsible for creating problems – not other people. Negative thoughts & feelings of insecurity, fear & anxiety (over an ‘anticipated or perceived’ loss) can be held onto for as long as we decide. Our choice!
Believe it or not, choosing what makes you happy will simplify your life. Will you always make good choices? No, you’re human. Will you always know if you’ve made a bad one? Yes. When we start to choose thoughts that serve us, eventually it will become second nature (it will become automatic). Sometimes only when we look at the past, do we realise how far we have come. For me, I’m grateful for where I am……. (& where I’m not!) ……. I praise myself. I’ve come a long, long way baby!
