The Serenity Prayer (Part 4 of 5)

We always have a choice, though we don’t always see that. 

It is important to recognize situations where some things ARE beyond our control. But even when they are seemingly out of our control, we still do have a CHOICE how we respond to that situation. 

In any given situation or event, even if it may seem to be unpleasant at the moment - ask yourself, what is the most beneficial response I can have at this moment? Getting angry when stuck in a jam, for example. Banging on the horn repeatedly and cussing isn't likely to move the traffic along any faster. It would likely serve to increase your blood pressure, hurt your hand from banging on the horn,  and maybe even damage the steering wheel.

Instead, if you consider what your most beneficial response may be at that given moment - perhaps you will come to accept that present NOW. Take the moment to reflect - something pleasant, something calm, something enriching. Use that time given to you to "take a break" from the busy hustle and bustle of everyday rush. Turn on your favorite radio channel, listen to your preferred DVD - perhaps a song, music, or even a motivational talk by your favorite guru. Wouldn't that be more beneficial?

If a "mistake" has already been done. Take the example of spilled milk. Crying over it and screaming and shouting - be it at others or at yourself - isn't going to return the milk to it's container. Instead, consider what could be done in the future to decrease the likelihood of that mistake. Is there a lesson that can be drawn in the incident. And knowing that with some things, they are just "accidents." Something unintended - but they happen to the best of us. So learning to accept them just as they are without judging yourself or another may also be the way to go. Perhaps they can be a reminder to you of how you have grown. To be a more accepting, a calmer, a more patient person: parent, child, friend, colleague etc.

As in the previous blog article (Part 3 of 5) - there is always always something we can be grateful for. Focus your energy on that positive. Get something beneficial and empowering from it. Stay positive. Stay healthy.

Peace & Namaste