Ugh, it’s hard to be gentle and graceful when the world makes me mad. And it’s especially hard to let go of things that I think I want or keep me comfortable.
Live Gently
- For me, it means, walking and talking softly. I have a very loud voice. I talk fast and with enthusiasm. I overwhelm some people. So I work on slowing down, quieting down, think of my edges as being rounded not square.
- I try not to accumulate a lot of ‘stuff’; I prefer experiences.
- Reacting to other people’s perceptions of me is a waste of time. The core of who I am is (I hope) unassailable.
Let Go Gracefully
Really? This is not my strong suit. If you’ve come into the orbit of my life then I think it’s my job to help you. But many people come and go and don’t need anything from me. They need a smile, maybe a kind word.
- If I am struggling with something or someone, that’s because I have not accepted “it” as it is. I want to change it, shape it or fix it.
- I have had particular struggles letting go at work. When money is concerned, I tend to be rigid, fearful. This comes from growing up poor.
- Change is hard. If I can create the change, then it’s easier for me to accept (I’m more graceful?) But when it is imposed on me, my back goes up. Letting go of what I know or believe is like bleeding. I’m right; when in truth, I may be wrong.
In the search for serenity (note: as distinct from happiness), walking softly and letting go gracefully are key.
Image Credit: Buddha Quotes
What do you think?