Make Each Day a Masterpiece!

"Perfection is the willingness to be imperfect." Lao Tsu

Navigating uncertain times is nothing new to me; I've dealt with them for the greater portion of my life, and I’m still thriving. Yet, what is new is the relentless grip of technology, which pulls me into the political unrest occurring in our country. It’s nearly impossible not to be affected by it.

I thought I had this thing licked, but each time I venture online, I’m met with “breaking news” detailing chaos, loss, and suffering, moments that still strike a chord deep within me. Realizing that I have more work to do to let go of the things I can’t control, I started praying for guidance and came across a story of a painter who strived to “Make each day a Masterpiece.” The story got me to thinking that perhaps this is the remedy for dealing with persistent distractions.  

Like the painter, each morning I'm presented with a blank canvas—24 hours—and it’s up to me to choose how I spend them. Therefore, I’ve decided to pour more energy into creating Masterpiece days and ignore the influencers who have a cunning way of disturbing my peace.  

Here’s a glimpse of my Masterpiece day:

It begins with two morning rituals that, for years, have kept me grounded and set a positive tone for the day.

The first ritual is spending quiet time with my Gratitude Journal and Pen—my two most powerful prayer companions that connect me to the innate spirit I call God. My pen lists the things I'm thankful for, creating a running tally of my blessings.  

In addition, if unsettling thoughts are swirling around in my head, gratitude and the pen have the astonishing power to take them out of my head and leave them on the pages of my journal, where they belong.

My second ritual involves inspirational reading, which inspires me, helps me set meaningful intentions for the day, reminds me to leave space for divine intervention, and sometimes includes a delightful surprise or two. 

The rest of my day is filled with creative "brushstrokes" that include:

·         Walking 20-30 minutes at least five days a week.

·         Coloring my plate with fruits and vegetables and drinking plenty of water.

·         Circulating money. Whether paying bills, making a purchase, or performing an act of kindness, moving money reminds us of the abundance of the Universe.

·         Laughing…a lot!

·         Following my passion for reading, writing, and crocheting, I welcome the creative opportunities they afford.

·         Sending positive messages to family and friends.

·         Looking for blessons in all situations.

·         Skipping the harrowing details of “Breaking News” feeds. Instead, I send a prayer blessing to those who are suffering as well as to the shot-callers who appear to have no reverence for life.

A calming nighttime ritual wraps up my Masterpiece day. As my head hits the pillow, I ask myself two critical questions:  “What was my favorite moment of the day?" and “What was my biggest accomplishment—what small or large victory am I most proud of?” The answers are always fulfilling, peppered with joy, and they lull me off to sleep feeling grateful.

My Masterpiece days are imperfect; they don't always unfold as planned, and unexpected challenges arise. But rather than becoming discouraged by what appears to be nonstop national and international breakdown and division, I’m grateful for the hidden blessons in each challenge. After all, it’s the challenges that encourage growth and add unique character to my Masterpiece creation.

So.....what distracts you or pulls at your heartstrings? Would creating Masterpiece days help, and what would they look like?

As you contemplate the answers, remember this: Mastery comes with practice, and your daily "brushstrokes" blend to form the magnificent work of art you call life!

Create your Masterpiece, Be Well!

Need help? Contact me at smallchange@myrtlerussell.com.

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