I got behind on my daily meditations. In the whirlwind of travel-birthday-Christmas, I was sporadic with my Advent reflection book. So, I’m currently on Saturday, December 21st. (I’m pretending a little that Christmas is a few days away.)
“Sometimes it seems like I’m spinning my wheels. I don’t want to wait for the snow to melt or the rose to blossom. I don’t want just a desert flower. I want a lush garden. Today.”
Five days ago, Chicago was in the deep freeze of a Polar Vortex. It was nicknamed Chiberia. Yesterday, the rains came and turned the city into the River Chiberian. The commute, the sidewalks, two pairs of my shoes are messed up. The town isn’t the only one having a major meltdown. It’s gross out. And the gloom can permeate through three pairs of socks and send a wet chill from toe to head.
My reflection book suggests that “signs of hope can be found all around me.” I not only need to look for those, I also need to be a sign of hope to others.
As Roger says, “everyone is doing the best they can.” I need to believe that. And I need to be that.
I resolve to…
*wear my boots! I bought waterproof boots. If it’s wet and cold, I need to be booted. It doesn’t matter if I wanted to look nicer for an outing. Snow boots are mandatory apparel.
*quit complaining about CTA and its questionable functionality. I’m just perpetuating negative commuting vibes. I must remember I’m lucky to live in a city that has a public transit system.
*actively express the positive aspect of any scenario.
*make plans to spend time with people that inspire me.
*put on bright clothing to contrast the grayness of the day.
*stay home and recharge. I can find solace in the darkness if I quiet myself.
*wait for the sunrise. It’s coming.