Wednesday, November 25, 2009

giving thanks

“Herein lies the well of life; let us laugh and let us sing for in truth we are blessed by everything.” - Isadora James


Sometimes, when I am stressed, I take a very deep breath and let the air fill every single inch of my lungs and then I am able to find myself deeply affected and moved by how beautiful the world really is. In reality nothing has changed, but when I breathe I find myself looking at the world differently. Time slows and where once there was impatience and frustration in my heart, I look again and find grace. There is enough, there is always enough; enough time to do all the things I want to do, enough love so that I don't have to worry about competing for it with others, enough space to move around in, even if it doesn't always feel like it in Los Angeles. Enough supply to help me get through each day without feeling lack, enough challenges to keep my mind and body working hard, enough meaning in what I do, even in the smallest of actions, so that I am able to move confidently through this world, knowing that I have a purpose.

When I inhale and exhale and follow my breath as it moves through my body, uncurling and relaxing muscles I didn't even know were tense, I suddenly feel very small, but not in a bad way. My body has made room for all the little surprises and small moments of happiness that flitted my way during the day, the ones I brushed off impatiently because I had different expectations or didn't want to be bothered with such tiny acts of kindness. I am aware, almost simultaneously, of how unimportant I am, and how much I have to offer to this world.

I think this is the nature of gratitude as well. It helps me make room in my busy life, it stills the pointless noise in my head and refocuses me; it reminds me that my drama is unimportant but my love for others is more needed than ever.


Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, everyone.

13 comments:

jenn said...

what a beautiful post. it reminds me so much of the quote from 'american beauty' which is probably my favorite movie quote of all time.

"I guess I could be pretty pissed off about what happened to me... but it's hard to stay mad when there's so much beauty in the world. Sometimes I feel like I'm seeing it all at once, and it's too much, my heart fills up like a balloon that's about to burst. And then I remember to relax, and stop trying to hold on to it, and then it flows through me like rain and I can't feel anything but gratitude for every single moment of my stupid little life. You have no idea what I'm talking about, I'm sure. But don't worry... you will someday."

Maggie May said...

a beautiful essay on gratitude.

Happy Thanksgiving sweetie!

Marion said...

Wonderful advice, Phoenix. I read calming poetry when I'm stressed (lots of our Robert Frost!!!) and try to breathe deeper, too.

Have a blessed & joyous Thanksgiving. I'm thankful to know you!!!! xoxo

Marion said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Marion said...

Okay, I made an oops and posted my comment twice. I deleted the second one. LOL! My bad!! ;-)

Dave said...

I took a class on stress management in college...I think I just got more outta your post on the subject than I did in that course. Have a Happy Turkey Day.

krista said...

dave's comment just made me so happy.
:-)
xoxo

Ida/FarEastLogbook said...

Wise words. You're an excellent writer.
Happy Thanksgiving.

Honey Bee said...

Heyy, I don't know if this will be of interest to you, but I started a new blog thread called FML Fridays!
I'd love it if you took part:
http://juicycourtship.blogspot.com/2009/11/fml-fridays-running-around-in-circles.html

A New England Girl said...

I loved this post. :)

I hope you had a wonderfully enjoyable thanksgiving, dear. :)

Angie Muresan said...

Those are very lovely words. Hope you had a wonderfully happy Thanksgiving.

Clarity said...

These are sweet words Phoenix, like Jenn it reminded me of the American Beauty quote too. Breathing is a wonderful reminder, I am glad you are finding your purpose and I hope it keeps expanding (along with your lungs), Peace, xx.

Annje said...

Beautifully written. I love that feeling too.

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