What a wonderful opportunity to bring peace and happiness to others and in turn ourselves this month! The holidays get so busy with activity and we are pulled in so many directions. Sometimes we need a reminder to focus on what is important – family, friends, relationships, our health. We here also want to focus on giving back to our community – food to homeless services, toys and gifts for children, care packages for our troops.
This past year has been difficult for many. We have had several disasters and tragedies occur in our nation. The ability to bounce back from all kinds of trauma, both physical and psychological, is one of our species most impressive adaptations. Neuroscience has shown us that the brain is plastic and malleable; Change, growth, and understanding are always possible. Recovery from hardships can take years but to function in new circumstances, you have to be able to change your expectations and views of the world. You can sit around and say, “It’s not supposed to be this way,” but in the end, what good does that do if you can’t change it? – excerpt from Psychology Today magazine article.
We may not be able to change the outer world and its circumstances but I think it is imperative to be at peace inside our soul. We can always control how we react. “The problem is not the problem, the problem is your attitude towards the problem.” Let’s find that balance in our lives to take on challenges and still be grateful; grateful for the many riches we have in the people around us and in our daily interactions. This is a time of giving and loving. Have a peaceful and joyous holiday!
“The more you thank life, the more it gives you to be thankful for.”
CC DeGraff, Executive Director