There’s a saying that, ” you can’t buy peace of mind.” Probably true, but you can create it. In fact, creating / experiencing peace of mind has been a recurring theme for me over the past week or so.
Yesterday was filled with work obligations, but the opportunity presented itself to invite my parents and Aunt Polly, who lives in Michigan and I don’t see very often, to dinner. The “old” Andrea of several years ago would have fretted about what to cook, made a special trip to the store and in essence created overwhelm. Instead, yesterday my parents and aunt shared in our simple meal that I was planning to cook anyway of vegetarian fried rice. My parents were even willing to stop at the store to pick up some provisions to allow me to have enough for everyone. (Thanks Mom & Dad if you happen to read this today!) We had a roaring fire in the fireplace, a delicious and simple meal and most importantly, a peaceful time together.
A couple of days ago, a colleague of mine Linda Samuels was kind enough to comment on the success of ICD’s Matching Donation Campaign. She exclaimed, “You must be feeling pretty darn great.” I think I surprised her when I responded, “What I feel is “at peace”. The peace comes from knowing we ran a good campaign and are going to do good things with the funds entrusted to us.”
This morning upon waking I had the pleasure of reading an advent devotional by a woman named Char. It spoke of the importance of taking the opportunity to be mindful and present this holiday season. In it she stated, “Perhaps the best gift that you can give to yourself, your loved ones and your friends is the gift of mindfulness.” I loved what she had to say and peace settled in upon reading her posting.
There’s another saying, “What you pay attention to grows.” One thing that has changed in my life in the past couple of weeks has been a refocusing on mindfulness. I’m reading a new book on Mindful Coaching, listening to new guided meditations by Jon Kabat-Zinn (the longer ones I’ve not taken the time to experience before), paying greater attention to what I’m experiencing in the now and in short making more room for mindfulness in my life.
This peace that arises from mindfulness, especially at this typically hectic time of the year – this genuine, “peace of mind” – has been priceless.
Wishing you mindfulness, peace and peace of mind this holiday season.
photo credit: Gary Greene
This is so true, Andrea. You can’t buy peace of mind, but you most certainly can create it. And it sounds like you have some specific ways of making it happen for you including mindfulness, letting go, and adjusting expectations.
And yes…you DID surprise me the other day with your response. But then again, I shouldn’t have assumed how you were feeling. Another lesson learned. Thank you.
I so appreciate you reading and commenting Linda and taking the time for a helpful conversation with me recently. Enjoy your weekend!
You’re most welcome. I always welcome and enjoy our conversations. Happy, safe travels to you. Have fun at the football game.
Andrea, we loved the vegetarian fried rice, the nice fire in the fireplace and being with you and Mike. Thank you for all that you do and for being a wonderful daughter. Mom
Thanks Mom!
Nicely communicated. Glad I took the time to read it being in need of this reminder especially now, typically the crazy-making time for me. My mantra of late is “one thing at a time” and this is working for me. Not looking ahead or behind but at here and now, one minute at a time. Thanks Andrea for being the kind of person whose energy and thoughtfulness brings out the best in others!
Cindy, I’m glad you took the time to read the post too! Thank you for your kinds words. It’s great to hear you’ve found a mantra that’s working to keep you in the present – it’s a great place to BE.
Wonderful post! I am cultivating peace of mind and mindfulness this month. Instead of fretting like you mentioned, I am working on being in the moment with where I am and who I am with. I’ll keep you posted on my efforts!
Thank you Ellen. Wonderful to hear you too are cultivating BEing in the moment. Presence is a beautiful thing and I look forward to hearing about the results of your efforts!
What a lovely post. We ofter wish each other “peace” during the holidays and I love how you’ve explained your pursuit of it.
Thanks Denise! So great that you could drop in to comment. Wishing “peace” every day sounds like a great practice to begin. Peace to you this holiday season and throughout the new year!