Keep your eyes on a golden prize — a new season of kindness and peace. We have lived through a turbulent four years. Even now as we approach an election we are still experiencing turmoil: More than 220,000 deaths from COVID-19 with no plan from the White House; Russian bounties on the heads of our troops; Talk from a president who appears to favor white supremacist. Bullying. Unkind words. Turmoil. Now with 14 days to go until we elect a new president, we should embrace serenity and gratitude. Begin by creating a serenity space within your four walls.
When we moved to the city from a large country house, I had to figure a way to find a serenity space. I decided to use a camera to look at two rooms from different perspectives. First standing in the middle of the room, I photographed each corner. Then standing in each corner, I snapped more photos from different angles.
Really assessing each wall and corner helps identify the perfect spot for a retreat. Through photos, or even a critical eye, you can see the section of a room that has unnecessary clutter or an awkward emptiness just waiting for you to adapt it for your peaceful place.
The perfect space
The space works best if you can add a small table or desk with a journal — but no books or magazines to distract you. Perhaps just a small vase with a flower. If you can look out a window, and see the sky, so much the better. View the time as a way of appreciating and developing your intuition which can lead to wise decision-making and inventiveness. It is helpful if you:
- Schedule time each day, preferably in the morning.
- Use time management techniques so that by the end of your day you are prepared for a restful sleep.
- Shut off your cell phone and all electronic distractions.
- Buy a gratitude journal and use it often.
Gratitude is an attitude which brings invaluable benefits. During times of solitude, gratitude seems to come more naturally because it is easy to start with a simple, “I am so grateful for this time to myself.”
When you are in space that is free of distractions and clutter, you are better able to focus on gratitude and meditation.
During these next 14 days, instead of focusing on the bad news, bring yourself to the good news. Rejoice thinking about a Blue Wave. Anticipate celebrating with friends — even if it is on ZOOM — President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Goodness is returning to our country. Shake off negativity and prepare for peaceful times.
Adapted from my column: Create a Serenity Space by Applying the Art of Order, PsychologyToday.com, February25, 2019
Copyright 2020 Rita Watson