Gratitude

During this holiday season I have been filled with such a different feeling as in so many past years. I name it gratitude. I am so grateful for my health, my relationships, my abundance and joy. I find that joy is so much more about simplicity than anything else. I am grateful that the general feeling is about finding the simple happiness that is ours on a daily basis. That joy is found in sparkling lights, a warm fire, a hot cup of tea, and the unconditional love of a dog. Blessings to all!

Self Actualization

I feel it is very important not to feel competitive when it comes to yoga. So many things in life are competitive and comparisons are made. My own expectations and values are so much more than anyone else would ever expect. With yoga I feel so much less of an expectation as a satisfaction and stillness. I do not feel that competition. I am reminded of Maslow’s Theory of Needs. I always thought about that level of self actualization, not needing recognition for what we do but fulfilling those needs with the power to be stronger. It is a basic philosophy that only at the top of the pyramid is there something more. How can I get there without the ego getting in the way? How do I realize it when the ego is leading me? I want to recognize the ego. Explore my spirituality, enhance my yoga practice, strengthen my meditation skills, learn the benefits of asanas, and most of all be able to share this with my students. I love being with people of like mind. I grow from learning from everyone. I know that how I think is the way things are in my little world. I have the ability to change how I think minute by minute, second by second to stop my suffering. I want to think with affirmation and kindness, not only to others but most of all be true to myself.

Intention

In the beginning of the year it seems everyone gets serious about changing themselves in some way. So, they set goals. Now if you are like me in the last 15-16 days I have been asked about 20 times what my New Year's Resolutions are, or what goals do I have for 2009. Well, as one who does not want to be a loser I say, hmmm no goals this year. And then, I proceed to have about 15 items on my to do list to get accomplished. I guess I just don't want to call them a goal because then I have to be responsible for those goals to someone other than myself! So not one person can accuse me of failing. NO! So, I have intentions. The intention to change, which means I will get that accomplished as long as I keep my intention. Intention means the determination to act in a certain way. If I am acting in a certain way, thinking in a certain way........my intention will be followed and I will never stop until I accomplish this thing I am determined to finish. If nothing else, I will always be focused in the right direction and who knows what I will accomplish!

Gratitude

I heard a few days ago something that made me think about how lucky I am. I was asked to think about having everything I have taken away from me. Then, to live like that for a few days and then to miraculously get it all back. Just think about how grateful I became. I have abundance!

In life it is important to think about what you have instead of what we do not.
In this time of thankfulness I am grateful.
Trudy