Have A Present Moment!

It was the 10th day of rain, and I walked into the pool locker room feeling a little soggy around the edges. I asked my pool friend, Laurie, how she was and she said, "Bright and cheery. It's a wonderful day and I'm going to accomplish a lot of good things." Laurie, who is recovering from hip surgery and on most days can be seen walking around the locker room with great care, wiggled her cane at me from under the shower.

I went for a walk that afternoon - in the rain - and enjoyed myself immensely. Later, in my car, I put on a Motown CD and moved with the rhythm. Nothing like Motown to pep you up.

It seems just when I need it, some reminder to be cheerful comes along. Like a breath of fresh air, it reminds me to notice what is good. I'm lucky and I know it, with many gifts to be grateful for - a healthy body, a solid roof over my head, good friends, and a family I love and enjoy being around.

We all have bad days and unpleasant feelings. Maybe you are having one now. It's okay. Just like the rain, this, too, shall pass. Watch, notice, breathe. Instead of resisting, honor whatever feeling you happen to be having at the moment. I sincerely hope it's a pleasant one. But if not, all the more reason to breathe it into your center and experience it fully. It will change.

Be on the look out today for reminders to be grateful, cheerful, and fully alive in this moment. It's the only one you've got.

By: Judy Ringer

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© 2005 Judy Ringer, Power & Presence Training

About the Author: Judy Ringer is the author of Unlikely Teachers: Finding the Hidden Gifts in Daily Conflict, containing stories and practices on turning life's challenges into life teachers. Judy is a black belt in aikido and nationally known presenter, specializing in unique workshops on conflict, communication, and creating a more positive work environment. She is the founder of Power & Presence Training, and chief instructor of Portsmouth Aikido, Portsmouth, NH, USA. To sign up for more free tips and articles like these, visit www.JudyRinger.com.