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Do What You Can
Do we need to learn how to live, isn't life just about getting up each day and getting on with it, what is the 'Art of
Living' and why should we all learn it or develop it?
'The Art of Living' in one sentence would be to use our time constructively in such a way as to get the most out of each
moment, in other words live each moment to the full. No, this doesn't mean that we fill each moment of our lives with empty
pleasures, but that we make the most use of each moment we live.
We should live our lives in ways that enrich us; mentally, emotionally, spiritually, etc. The quest for knowledge and
wisdom should be continued throughout our lives. These will also help us to make our lives more fruitful and satisfactory.
We, who tend to save money which can still be earned, often waste the most important, limited and irreplaceable asset we have;
TIME! Time should be utilized to develop our creativity, seek happiness and peace of mind and in other pursuits that help
not only us but also help others and brighten our lives and theirs.
One great human failing has always been to concentrate on all that is either bad, or wrong, or then missing in our lives,
often overlooking or not giving enough importance to all that is good and present. Often even if it is just one thing that
is missing or just one gripe a person has with life it might take up the persons entire attention, making them perpetually
discontented, complaining and unhappy. Instead why not focus on all that is good and wonderful in our lives, or even for a
moment picture our lives without all that we do have and try to imagine what it would be like to lose it. Maybe then we will
realize its worth and value it more.
Jalalluddin Rumi a mystic poet once said:
"Do not sit long with a sad friend.
When you go into a garden,
do you look at thorns or flowers?
Spend more time with roses and jasmine."
When we go through everyday rituals, we can choose our perspective. We can see the roses in life-- the happy events that
make us feel good, the beautiful sights for sore eyes--and we can turn our eyes from the thorns and dying plants.
We also do this with the people in our lives, often complaining about their faults or shortcomings instead of appreciating
their good points and all that they do for us. Transferring our attention from shortcomings to the positive things and showing
appreciation and gratitude will help many relationships to grow, strengthen and bloom.
Often we also feed negative feelings like anger, jealousy, nursing grudges against others and planning revenge. The more
these feelings are nursed and tended the more they grow, till they take over our hearts and fill us with bitterness and gall.
So why should we not treat our hearts as gardens, where we sow the seeds and bulbs of love, happiness, joy, gratitude,
appreciation goodwill, etc and weed out the negative feelings; ; of hatred, jealousy, resentment, anger, etc. that will
choke the garden not allowing it to blossom.
Another way we waste precious time is on worrying; worrying never did and never will solve anything. Problems should be
faced, broken down into manageable bits, and handled as well as one can.
Usually we all have a tendency towards stress, one of the ways we get stressed out is by thinking of the next ten things
that need to be done while we are still on the first. Whether we are working or relaxing, this way we cannot give full concentration
to the work at hand nor derive optimum pleasure from our leisure. Time management and concentrating fully on just what we
are doing is most important, this will also calm the spirit. Taking a few minutes off our busy schedule to stop, just stop
in our tracks and look around us, imbibe the beauty we see, or to meditate, or just relax the mind perhaps by listening to
some soothing music is extremely important. Nothing relaxes the mind more than the music of nature though, the melodies of
flowing water or the songs of the birds, or the winds soft whispers to the trees for example.
Making time for the important people in our lives is also equally important, spending quality time with children, loved
ones and friends. Making precious memories that can be stored in the alabaster box of the mind and taken out time and again
throughout our lives to give us pleasure. How sad it is that often it is after a person has passed that we realize the time
we could have spent with them. Opportunities lost that can never return!
A friend does something extremely positive to make each day count that can be practiced by all of us and which I am sharing
here in her own words.
Pari Ali
In Cheryl's Words:
"I have been keeping a Gratitude Journal for many years now. It consists of writing five things every night before
I go to bed, that I am grateful for. I do it at night so that I go to sleep being grateful, not angry, depressed, upset, or
anxious.
Sometimes it is very hard to do that. I used to feel I didn't have much to be grateful for until I started noticing everything
I did have to be grateful for. Now I can easily list 5 things, even on a bad day.
In the beginning, I struggled....I would write..I am grateful for my children, my husband, my home, food, chocolate? Day
2..my children, my mom called, my house didn't burn down like the one on the news did, my husband didn't get mad I didn't
wash his uniform, I didn't have to get a root canal. Day 3.. the air I breath, chocolate, cookies, going out to eat, tissues
to wipe my tears.
See my point? Eventually, I started noticing things like, the smell of coffee in the morning, the flowers outside, the
beautiful sound of the birds singing, the sun setting, the laughter of the children, my husbands voice calling to say he loved
me, the smell of autumn, the look of the trees as the blew in the wind.........
I was looking, so I saw!! What ever we look for, we will find.
Be grateful. Write down what you see, what you hear, what you taste, what you feel and what you smell. The more you think
about, the more you find.
On bad days, I only have to look back at previous pages (years now) and I smile at all I have to be grateful for."
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Some more tips in verse:
Take Time (sonnet)
The way to find the beauty that we need
is just to look, it's waiting to be seen;
the secrets of a rosebud, given heed,
will be revealed to one who waits serene.
The blessing of a day is that it comes
one minute at a time, and that's enough;
by taking all at once, a fool succumbs
to worries making modern life so rough.
So take a moment, look up in the sky,
take time to feel the sunshine on your face.
A minute spent in joy goes surely by
as quickly as the minute that you chase.
The goodness and the troubles of a day
are much alike, they all will pass away.
All rights reserved, © MargaretG.
Why We Are Here
The cave within ourselves
is a hollow place,
veiled under sanctuary
as it seeks to lure us in
through a whirlpool of deception
Adam Smith
should really hang up a sign,
this way for safety,
this way for security,
away from the clash of swords,
away from the cries of the fallen,
away from the pains of the struggle
The cave within ourselves,
is a hollow place,
be wary and take Heed
Nothing good lives there,
the cave within ourselves
it is not a place to live,
it is a place to slowly die
The paradox of living,
is to discover
the energy within the enigmas,
like diamonds within the seam,
like gold dust in the stream
To discover the power of "the opposites"
to reveal the beauty of the separates
within the seemingly opposed
This is where love is found,
this is where truth is wrought,
this is where beauty abounds,
this is where art is sought,
To become loved,
you must first love all things
To take flight,
you must run into a repelling wind
To create energy,
you cross dangerous opposites for sparks
To propel forwards,
a rocket burns explodes and pushes backwards
To discover the world,
you first discover the vastness in yourself
We are here to build bridges
We are here to forge difficult streams
and we are each of us here,
to see everything,
to feel everything,
to create a little more love
Understanding
Perhaps when times are hard it
is easier to rant and rave than to
take a step backwards and gather one's thoughts
into some semblance of order
Often we will give in to the trials
of life without a battle...(taking the easy option)
when if just a word is spoken at the right time
things can be rectified and harmony.. not discord remain
Life is a gift...from whence it came I am not sure
but a gift nevertheless and one to be cherished
and nurtured with love....even the beggar in the street
had a mother and father...the leper likewise
Intolerance is so shallow..it shows no grace
no regard....with just a small amount of compassion
miracles can happen..(as with water to wine)...
cripples can walk and the Blind will see
A person I loved once told me "Treat others as you
would like to be treated"....not always an easy task
but one by which I have tried to live by....Others
also live by this creed and they do make a difference
We need to love ourselves before we can help ourselves...
making time for each other we often loose sight of the time we need
for ourselves.....this time is precious....it allows us to recharge
our batteries
When we have mastered this philosophy of life we become better
humans with a gentler attitude.....relationships will bloom with
the new softer side and the lonely will touch the hearts of
other lonely souls searching for their soul mates..
The touch of a smile is magic......
All rights reserved, © cutiepie
The Master's Loving Hand
Have you ever taken time to look at the wonder of a tree?
Or sat and watched the busy little buzzing honey bee
Have you marveled at a flower blossom beautiful and grand?
That tenderly was sculpted by the Masters loving hand
Theres so much here for you to see that doesnt cost a dime
If you will only pause a bit and take a little time
To enjoy all of the blessings that were put upon this land
So beautifully created by the Masters loving hand
The bluest skies, the greenest grass, all put on earth with love
As gifts to every one of us from the Father up above
A gentle rain, a bright rainbow, a simple grain of sand
Each one a thing of beauty from the Master's loving hand
A starlit night, a sunny day, a loved ones gentle touch
All these things He's given for He loves us very much
Mother Nature's bounty He has placed at our command
So take a little time to hold the Master's loving hand
A Smile
What have you done, dear one, today?
How have you lived this glorious day?
He listened to the tender child
I ran, I talked, I played, I smiled
Where did you run? Where did you go?
I ran into the glittering snow
I caught a snowflake on my glove
And thanked You for your heavenly Love
In May when earth leans toward the sun
It's in the meadow that I run
And when you paint the autumn trees
I run through woods and kick the leaves
You say you talked a bit today.
Who did you see, what did you say?
I met a woman old in years
I made a smile out of tears
I said she looked so dear and kind
But she was old and left behind
I thought her beautiful despite
Her useless legs, her dire plight
No one has said that beauty lies
Within these withered, blinding eyes
I said I saw her beauty deep
Within her heart. It made her weep
What did you play that made you smile?
What did you do that seems worthwhile?
Whatever makes my heart content
That's how my playing time is spent
I passed a man who seemed quite sad
As though his life was cruel and bad
As though he left life's certain track
I smiled at him. He smiled back
This conversation wrapped in love
Between my child and God above
Though I could only hear one part
Touched places deep within my heart
It seemed she lived just as she should
Her day was purposeful and good
She savored every part of day
And in the end took time to pray
She's learned to honor and to give
And in its wake, she's learned to live
If I could have a day as this
I truly would find happiness
If I could find my God again
Each day would have a peaceful end
The twilight sky, a kind bequest
Would put my weary soul to rest
I'd put the past into the past
And live this day as though the last
I'd emulate a little child
Who lives from thoughts both pure and mild
I'd speak to You just as she does
I'd live my life just it was
All that was lost, I'd seek again
I'd do Your works until the end
I'd learn once more to love and give
And as my child, I'd learn to live
All rights reserved, © Cinara.
Be Still
When things seem real crazy look up
Reach out for the peacefulness
That you know is there
Any obstacle can be overcome
And perfect love casts out all fear
When time is running out much too fast
Take a little and search within
You'll find a quiet strength
That will enable you to rise
There's nothing that you cannot bear
When times are changing be quiet
Seek the silent voice inside
Try and meditate
Once a day and life will be clear
Be still and know that I am God!
All rights reserved, © aslanlight.
Trust In God
All things and people in this lifetime will surely come and go
Count your blessings while you have them, you just never know
Be grateful God has blessed you with yet another precious day
There is so much hurt and pain, but it doesn't have to be that way
Time will surely pass Like a thief amongst the darkest night
Stealing the things you love and have, But you mustn't give up the fight
If you will just put your trust in God, He has so much more for you
Lean not on your own understanding but on his and he will pull you through
No one has the answers for all the heartache this life throws your way
But I know if you put your trust in God, there is hope for a better day
There comes a time you must except there are things out of your control
If you can put it into Gods hands, you will find peace within your soul
Take life one day at a time and be thankful for each blessing it contains
Try to take a look at the good and I promise you hope still remains
The light of God will direct your path and you will not be led astray
His loving arms are waiting to hold you and wipe your tears away
Amen
Success is having time.
Time to do the things that count
like raising decent kids
and helping others
and playing the piano.
Even if badly.
Success is having time.
Time to do the things that count
like keeping an open mind
and keeping an open heart
and never being too busy
to count your blessings.
Discernment (sonnet)
A hidden world is here for us to see,
the one of thoughts and feelings, joys and cares;
a meta world, intangible and free,
let anyone dispute this world who dares.
Appearances deceive us till we know
that beauty is as beauty does. A face
can hide the truth; beguiling glamour glows,
and malice lies concealed without a trace.
Discernment is a skill that grows, the seeds
are hardship and desire to live in peace.
We learn to mark a person by her deeds;
ignoring sight, our troubles just increase.
The eyes are yours, and now's the time to start,
to still the mind and listen to the heart.
All rights reserved, © MargaretG
diamonds
slow down dear child
let youth turn like the seasons
in your own time
you will discover the reasons
for growth
and change
for the times we cry
the times we rejoice
for love
slow down young woman
let love ripen like the fruit
in it's own time
the seed of trust will take root
to find your soul mate
you must first find
your soul
look within
before looking
without
slow down young man
let joy soak your spirit
feel peace and comfort
knowing God's truth when you hear it
your days, like diamonds
sparkle in the Light
rare and beautiful
this gift -
insight
Happiness
In ashen faces bereft of the shine
that happiness in the heart can bring,
In hoarse voices accustomed to a whine
though at the threshold waits the spring,
No power, however mystic and strange,
can hold out the promise of a change.
When the eyes see shadows of despair
on every rain cloud that passes by,
and on bright blossoms, fragrant and fair,
they see the stamp of a melancholic sigh,
No power, however potent and humane,
can break through the barriers of pain.
When cultures of self-pity and sadness
flourish in the agonizing mind,
When simple pleasures are denied ingress,
Peace and happiness how can one find?
Be it a zephyr or a tempestuous gale,
The mountain stands still and strong,
In the treacherous bosom of a vale,
A stout heart hums the strains of a song.
If the heart is unsure and the spirit is frail,
Life stumbles along the sorrow's trail.
If the will is firm and the step is sure,
Will life ever lose its allure?
All rights reserved, © krishna64
Another Day of Promises
sun rising slowly over the Eastern horizon
another day of promises
the volcano erupting, regurgitating fire
another day of hope
the sea that flows so endlessly
another day of happiness
the moon that lights the darkest night
another day of fulfilment
the air we breathe that surrounds the whole
another day of perfection
the shower of pebbles tossed into the lake
another day for the love we make
in all these things I do believe
another day of hope
so full of promises.
Allow Your Light to Flicker
Though dark days are upon us
Almost everywhere we turn
We all contemplate many ways
To let our candles burn
You cannot escape it
For the candle calls your name
Let your light flicker
For those who have no flame.
Situations all around us
We have to face everyday
So show the blind who seek light
The word, the light, the way
Take the rock from around your neck
Throw it to the wind
For the belt of truth and righteousness
Sets us free from sin
Beautiful prayers we send your souls
Your battles God will fight
Together we both share our faith
Walking in the light
written by poeticweaver (Timothy) and ladybug (Tamara)
04/03
Peace
I Know PEACE When I Sit Quietly Watching A Boring Movie With
My Husband.
I Know PEACE When I Am Driving Down The Road And See The Mountains
In The Distance.
I Know PEACE As I Listen To My Children In The Other Room Talking To
Each Other.
I Know PEACE Lying In Bed Knowing My Family Is Safe And Accounted For
I Know PEACE When I Sing An Old Hymn As I Remember My Granny
Singing It.
I Know PEACE When The Sounds Of Birds Wake Me In The Morning.
I Know PEACE Every Time One Of My Kids Says, "I Love You" First.
I Know PEACE Reading A Favorite Book For The 20th Time.
I Know PEACE Remembering Growing-Up In A Loving Environment.
I Know PEACE Disagreeing With My Best Friend And Knowing It Won't
Change Our Connection to Each Other
I Know PEACE Crying Because A Fellow Christian Is Shedding Tears Of
Joy.
I Know PEACE Hearing The Church Silent Except For One Voice Talking
To GOD.
I Know PEACE Knowing I Am Loved...Here And In Heaven.
I Know PEACE Because I Was Taught To Take Each Day As A Gift.
I Know PEACE Otherwise, I Couldn't Endure The Struggles Here Until
I Know PEACE In Heaven.
All rights reserved, © NurseyPoo
Fly
The ancient Indian woman turned her
weathered, dark eyes to me and said:
"Fly as the hawk today
Do not flap about loudly as the chicken
Going nowhere while making a dusty cloud.
Do not fly sharp, jointed patterns as the martin
Requiring your wings to remain tense.
Do not watch those nearby to know when to move
Like a frightened, first-year sparrow.
Think as the hawk
Soar on upward movements of substance
Reserving strength for needed moments.
Focus on a target farther than the last
Knowing the past has become itself.
Never forget your prized feather is wisdom;
Wisdom determines your perch.
Choose as the hawk, today."
Liquids
bridges cross over
passing rivers, flowing streams
but sometimes
we stop in between, soak it in
see our own reflection
if we are washed clean
through water, baptized,
set free
then tears are a form of release
and rain is a means of cleansing
stimulating
growth
think of the calm of floating,
a relaxed state of peace,
the crease and ripple of a puddle
when the wind
decides to breathe
like a seedling
leaves the safety of the womb,
then blooms like a new beginning
we are given
second chances
and newfound treasures
when nurtured by liquid pleasures
when watered devotedly
~ Dizzy Enough
Today, I write lies
Lavender skies and laughter
The pretty poems in my lap
And I try to capture
Each wiggle of light
The tickles in-between
The art of living
I am feeding
Under rocks, on rooftops
Dancing lost dances
Spinning my thoughts
With wild imagination
It is sunny and raining
Cloudy and clear
In the middle of revelation
I do not fear the cause
Or the response
When I'm dizzy enough
Teardrops
Are golden
All rights reserved, © Manicmuze
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