I think that before making any changes, one should evaluate what they really want to change. I think I will start with what I don't want to change. Basically the things I like about myself and my life.
My family is pretty darn great. My kids have grown into good people. While I have 2 adult children at home, they are hard working contributing members of the house hold. Yes I would like them to find spouses and start their own lives but that is up to them not me. And frankly I don't care if they move out when they get married. Having them here allows us to do so much more. Their support makes it possible for us to put up food, raise animals, grow gardens and orchards, etc. So I am happy with that situation.
My marriage is happy and stable. My husband is the best partner that I could have. Because he is a partner. We are a team. We are a blended family and our kids knew that our spouse came first. Don't get me wrong the kids needs were met and they were loved and cared for. But there was never going to the opportunity to drive wedges between us. There were times when the kids tried but it never worked.
My job is another area that I am happy in. I have a boss I really like. A role that is challenging and important. Working for a company that has good values and for the most part cares about it's employees.
My faith. I am fortunate to know where I come from and where I am going. I have a Heavenly Father who knows me personally and loves me unconditionally. He gives me trials to help me grow and chastises me when I have done wrong. He comforts me and guides me on my journey here in mortality. He has given me a prophet and other leaders to help me on this journey. One of the greatest things he has taught me is that I am entitled to my own revelation and I can have the answers I seek if I am willing to search them out.
I like my hobbies. I love that I have been given the gift of creating. I have a gift for putting together colors and patterns and using my hands. I have learned many skills along the way. My current love if quilting keeps me happy on a daily basis. I would not give up any of my creative hobbies.
I like that I have a logical mind but an empathetic heart. I am grateful for the ability to learn to love someone for who they are and accept them as they are. I am grateful that I am not easily offended and have learned to not take offense. Let's face it no one can offend you if you don't let them.
I am grateful that I have a gift for teaching. My son once told me that the happiest he's ever seen me is when I am teaching someone to do something I love. I have no qualms about getting up and giving a lesson or a talk. It is something that I have always just been able to do.
I like the fact that I can learn to do anything I want to. That was a gift my parents gave to me, the knowledge that if you really want to learn something you can.
There is a quote I read years ago that talked about the three essentials to happiness. The first one is something to do. I have a job and hobbies that keep me busy. The second is someone to love. I have a wonderful family full of children and grand children, brothers and sisters, and I have wonderful friends all of whom I love. The third is something to look forward to. This one is not anything grand for me. I look forward to sitting and sewing. I look forward to seeing my grandchildren. I look forward to visits with my children and friends. I am rather looking forward to retirement even if it's 7 years off.
I think the biggest key to all of these essentials is to find the joy in the little things. For example finding joy in putting up food or butchering your own meat. Going to work and making a difference even if it's only making sure the product is right. Loving family and friends and being there for them if it's only reading the grand kids a book. Looking forward to visits and time together instead of big vacations.
I am pretty lucky in my life and I am fortunate enough to know it.
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