My moment of intentional zen today was while commuting to and from work. I tried to keep from slipping into the autopilot that is common with commuting, for a start. I then tried to slip out of the autopilot that is just part of daily life in general.
I watched the sky as it got brighter, appreciating the colors around me. I admired the trees, and breathed in the sunlight. I felt a deep appreciation for the world and life I enjoy, even if it does involve having to get up in the morning and commute in to work.
This appreciation helped me connect more fully to the start of my day. I figure, to be truly grateful, I need to begin with actively experiencing the gifts I’ve been given. Through this engagement with these gifts of life, I’m feeling more able to share them.
Nynia in the Now 
Agree on positivity!
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And it’s a tough skill to practice sometimes, too. The days aren’t always so bright, and the hopes aren’t always so forthcoming… not in the way we wanted them to be. Things can get sort of crushing, sometimes, even when we’re just sure we should be better able to handle it all…
That’s why I’m practicing positivity and acceptance. I’m getting a little better each day at finding the gift it’s giving me, even (or especially) when it feels like it’s just kicking me again. I don’t “get it” every day, but with persistence, it’s getting easier…
❤
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That’s right. It’s a constant effort each day. 🙂
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It can be easy once you have internalized the behavior ~ takes some time ~ still learning myself ~ xxx
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Thanks for the encouragement! I find I have an easier time when I remember to consciously practice. That’s the toughest part for me, not slipping into bad habits!
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