Reading An Aspiring Professional Everything

As I sat at my desk this morning, trying to decide which of my many responsibilities, interests, and whims to focus my efforts on for the day, I found myself once again overwhelmed by all that assails us on a daily basis.  Our lives are so overloaded and overstimulated that we can find it all too easy to forget how to be happy.  Then, as I headed for the stairs and a fresh cup of coffee, I saw my son puppy at the head of the staircase.

He'd found the "good spot" -- where the sun streamed through a window and warmed the soft carpet, the perfect place to curl up and snooze.

I, for one, spend far too much of my time worried over how I'm going to "make enough money to be happy" or "give my family the happiness they deserve," and I'm sure I'm not alone in this.  Sometimes, though, it only takes a beloved pet to remind us that happiness is not in money or things, but in comfort and peace with one's self and lot in life; in other words, that "good spot" in the sunlight.  Certainly money can sometimes provide or even be necessary for that comfort, but not always, and without question not nearly as often as we sometimes think it to be.

I spoke to one of my airmen the other day about the value of meditation -- calm, quiet reflection; ridding the mind of extraneous thoughts and worries; focusing mentally, physically, spiritually, or all three.  What my puppy was doing, I think (and though entirely out of nature and habit rather than a conscious decision), was "meditating" -- just lying quietly, languishing in the warmth and comfort of that spot at that time.  How wonderful a thing is that!

So, then, as I sat back down at my desk with coffee in hand, I did go about working on a few things and just enjoying my interests for a time.  But I did so having found that "good spot," and I enjoyed the time rather than spend it worried and anxious.

Ah, the lessons we may learn from a sweet pet.

Here's hoping you find a warm place in the sun!

- John

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Posted in: Reflections

I have  been reading your blogs and find them witty, engaging, and always leaving me with a nugget of wisdom to mull over.  Your writing is beyond your years, and very good.  Keep it up!  -Fletch

wow!

well said John!!