Slowing Down, Enjoying the Blessings of Friends and Community

          Gratefulness

“For each new morning with its light,

For rest and shelter of the night,

For health and food, for love and friends,

For everything Thy goodness sends.”

– Ralph Waldo Emerson

         Good evening,

How was Friday for you?

My Gratitudes:
1.  I met with clients today.
      It was encouraging seeing them leave each session healthier, emotionally lighter. The bounded out from the office happier than when they arrived.  Recovery from unhealthy thinking and habits usually requires awareness. We can't improve our lives without first seeing the need.  For more on this subject, please click here.
2. One of my clients was new, it's inspiring seeing the
light go on inside her, after we look at healthy alternatives to defeating habits. Such was the case this afternoon.
3. A splitting headache awaited me, when I came home.
       Napping for several hours helped, much.  I'm the only person on earth who can make my welfare my number one priority.  I barely woke up in time to record today's gratitudes. Thank God for restorative power of rest.
4.   I appreciate the help received from my friend Alan, yesterday.
        I've known him since the seventh grade. He took me to store so I could get groceries.  He drove twenty-five miles to do so.
       My car is not working. My mechanic is swamped. He's worth the wait. However, I needed food.  I can't carry much, using a bike.   I am touched for the compassion and consideration my friend Alan demonstrated today.
         I gathered enough food to hold me over until my car is fixed sometime mid-week, next week. I'm glad: it's much healthier and more economical than eating out.
       Cooking is a form of meditation. It allows me to slow down a lifestyle that could be frantic, if I don't  keep it balanced. For additional thoughts about having a saner, more peaceful lifestyle, please click here.
5. I look forward to a bike ride with a friend tomorrow, in the early evening.  Before that, I'll go for a walk with another buddy in the afternoon. And before that, I'll gather with several friends in the morning. Because of the nature of my friends, I won't be "friended" out.  Each occasion will nurture my soul.
     Saturday's events allow me to celebrate life, community and support from others.
How About You?
1. What do  you do to take care of yourself, when you're worn out?
2. What are some ways that you slow down from the frantic pace of life.
3. What gratitudes do you have for this rapidly concluding week? What was your high point?