Monday Motivation: Be the Light We Need

Monday Mood, Monday Motivation, Inspiration

When I asked my joyful 90-year-old Aunt Dona what helped her live such a long and happy life she said, “Every morning I wake up knowing I’m alive, I thank God for another blessed day.” Although she has always been a spiritual woman, it doesn’t take years of studying the Bible or attending church to count the blessings in our everyday life.

At the opposite end of the day, I do something similar to my aunt and think of 5 -10 things, people, or occurrences that made me happy or blessed during the day. Sometimes it’s as simple as a good weather day to run a couple of miles, a phone call from a son, a tasteful bite at lunch, a person who opened the door for me, or a sweet video call from my granddaughter.

Lately, people say “I’m a light” or “Have a light.” It is always the same word. I’m not certain what they mean exactly but if I had to guess it is a joyful, understanding spirit inclusive of all people and an optimism that seeps out of me. I felt it in Florence, Italy after buying a hat from two men who were so grateful for my purchase that we talked for ten minutes before hugging goodbye. Seriously, love is the answer.

When the light went out for many of us on November 6^th after the election, we had been searching for some light in the forecasted dark times ahead. I still can’t understand why anyone I love or know would vote for such a horrible human being. There is nothing light about him only darkness. So finding hope during this time in American life has been difficult, yet people tell me after I speak to them they see my light.

I guess my light is positivity or like my aunt a joy that can’t be squashed just because a situation seems bleak. As long as I have my health, loved ones, good friends, people who care about the future, shelter, food, water, and waking up each morning, I am blessed and so are you.

Try to look for the light in yourself and others this week of Thanksgiving. Perhaps – like myself or my aunt you will fill each waking moment with gratitude no matter the circumstance.