A New Beginning

Life is what happens when you are busy making other plans - John Lennon

Sometimes we find ourselves in less than desirable situations. Even though we did not expect to find ourselves in these situations, or we feel hard done by, the reality is that we are where we are. At this point we have more choices than we are likely to believe we do. Life always presents us with forks at each intersection. There are choices available to us. For example, when we put in our best efforts and still fail, it can be disheartening and we feel distraught. We can pick ourselves up, learn from the experience, and try again….or we can wallow in self-pity, and begin the process of a downward spiral.

A fresh start

Starting anew means taking out a new canvas to redraw the picture of our lives. It means letting go of the disappointments and the missteps of the past, and looking on to the future without fear or trepidation. It means having an innate understanding that we are the architects of our own lives. There is a succinct quote in the Bible that reads “if you faint in the days of adversity, your strength is small.” What would you want to be remembered for ultimately? The one who gave up in the face of adversity? Or the one who refused to back off and instead developed a strength of character and resilience that triggered the process towards a better life for you and your loved ones? I bet the latter appeals more!

For the love of the journey

Life is a journey. The beauty of life is in the process. Most times we think in end states. We fantasize about decades ahead when our actions and efforts will finally pay off, and we can do all the things we have always wanted to do. The problem with such a thought process is that there are too many uncontrollable variables in such a massive universe of which we represent just a tiny microscopic speck. Life happens in the moment. To enjoy life, do the things that make you happy today, not tomorrow. Of course the answer to what makes someone happy is different for everyone.

There is no universal template. There is no map. Everyone has to figure this out. A rule of thumb however is how empowering does it make you feel? It could be watching the setting of the sun, or playing with your kids, volunteering for a social cause, or taking care of a loved one. Whatever it is, instead of putting it off to somedayland, you can take action today. One little action each day can make all the difference. The beauty of life lies in the daily little actions that generate spurts of happiness. Whatever failures or struggles you might have experienced, everyday is a fresh canvas to repaint a beautiful life for yourself. Start anew!

Alex James,?

May 02, 2022