10 Jul Every Breath Counts
It is amazing how absolutely beautiful this weather has finally turned out to be. The sun is shining, flowers are stretching out to the sky displaying the most vibrant colors and life in VanCity seems to be brilliant. So many people seem happier, more energetic and seem to have an overall good spirit about them. Truly, this is one of the best times to be in Vancouver…or perhaps anywhere where the sun rejuvenates people’s spirits.
I don’t get why we feel so much better on days like these compared to when it is raining. Sure, I love the sun a lot. It is great to head to BBQs, parties and generally enjoying more of an outdoor life.
…and then I stop and take a breath. I remember standing by my friend’s hospital bed as he took his last breath while only in his twenties. It was a sunny day, but I can tell you that the hearts of those around him were not shining brightly with joy. Truth be told, we all have tragic moments in our past in some shape or form. We can all relate to great and bad days regardless of the weather.
I am learning, because I crave wisdom, to value each breath I get to take regardless of the circumstances. Each breath is a gift. Each moment is another opportunity to make my life worth while or at least…at least add to that of another. Each moment is a precious gift.
I can, perhaps like you, get caught up in the drama of a moment. I will tell you that those moments have drastically decreased in frequency, because I don’t want to breathe life into negativity. Drama may try to come my way…it is relentless after all, but I simply refuse to let it take over my life. A dear friend of mine kindly reminded me that I abundantly give love when I receive love. I seek out lovely moments so that I can enjoy more of the stuff that puts a smile on my face. Hopefully, my smile will make you smile and the person that is blessed enough to cross your path. In the end, we all benefit.
I insist on breathing life into positive experiences and influences…not only because I know (intimately), how toxic the pain of negativity is, but because I need to feed my heart and my spirit. I owe at least that to them as they are the ones that keep me alive adn grant me another moment…another breath.
So I try to make each breath count…
