The two flowers stood tall against the sunlight. They stood alone, each defiant, confident, and seemingly arrogant. I reflected on my perception of the messaging I was seeing. As critical as my initial reaction was, I could easily see myself echoing one flower or the other in the mirror. As today begins, I wonder which flower I will embrace and which flower others will see.
What I do today combines who I am and what I choose. I cannot ignore the impact experience and thoughts have on my heart and soul. Each will feed and nurture the essence of what makes me unique. When junk dominates what I consume, the resulting words and actions are often less than my aspiration. Equally, with rest, self-care, and commitment, the potential opportunity for my best self to be present and engaged increases dramatically.
Where I am makes a difference. One flower was positioned with light that highlighted and emphasised its beauty. The other was caught up in the shadows. I have a choice of where and how I stand. I will choose if I bring hope to each moment. The choice will be told through words and actions. Each choice can be wrapped in kindness and care, bringing light into the darkness. I play a role in creating opportunities, seizing the moment, and what follows.
Attentiveness is an x-factor. Being aware and seeking to understand, learn, and grow changes my path. When I choose to live within myself, I often miss the larger story and greater vision. I fall into the trap where others looking to help me give up and turn towards silence. Their thoughts echo across the ages, “I have a lot more to say about this, but it is hard to get it across to you since you’ve picked up this bad habit of not listening.” (Hebrews 5.11). As I open myself to others, I experience the wonder of their openness to me, Divinity included. Attentiveness, within and without, changes everything.
Today is my time in the sun. It is an opportunity to choose with intent.
