12/25/10
This time last year, life started all over for me. Like a newborn, I had to relearn things about society and about human behavior. I had an abundance of energy and drive. Perhaps I was a little impetuous with my decisions though. I have made naïve mistakes in my quest to give back to this world. But, if I lose the part of me that dares to dream, I lose the essence of who I am.
I create my own reality and I take comfort in my ideals. With so many options, every moment of every day seems to offer up some new distraction. Only I can bring myself peace of mind.
I started this Christmas morning with a run followed by a little bit of strength training. The roads were nice and empty. The air was crisp. I was pleased to pass other runners and bikers along my route. I don’t know why, but I feel happy when I see other people exercising. Even though running is such a solitary sport, it’s still nice to feel like you are part of a community.
The day continued quietly. I enjoyed a wonderful meal prepared by my mom. It’s been so long since I’ve had a home cooked meal. She is trying to make sure I have enough energy for the upcoming run. We were able to talk about many details of the upcoming task. I’m so lucky she flew over here from Taiwan to support this project of mine. Funny how parents are always right there supporting you through rough waters. Whatever faith I had about completing the upcoming journey has been enhanced by her presence. Family is so important! While on the subject of family, my son and my ex called to wish me a Merry Christmas as well. While I didn’t get to be with him on this special day, he will be coming to stay with me for the greater part of next week. I will bring in the New Year with him by my side. Nothing could be more splendid.
Sometimes people are too consumed with cursing the current state of affairs to enjoy the beauty before their very faces. I have been guilty of this many times. But, no matter what, there are others out there who are worse off. Only by recognizing our blessings in trying times will we be able to fully appreciate what we have when times are good.
Busywork makes me more tired than exercise. I think it’s because the blood isn’t circulating through the body. They say things in motion stay in motion and things at rest stay at rest. What makes humans so special is that thing called the will. Our ideas create actions which lead to motion. Therefore positive ideas and thoughts lead to positive actions. Conversely negative thoughts and ideas lead to negative actions. But rest assured, the universe has its own police in this thing called karma. It’s like a cosmic Santa Clause. It knows if you’ve been naughty or nice.
Training the mind is no different from training the body. To grow stronger, both need a challenge. I can’t stress the importance of consistent action enough. If you want the mind to grow strong you must read, read, read. Look at the greatest minds of our time. They are all voracious readers. Look at some of our most productive leaders. They too read much and read often. There is no excuse not to do it. Please don’t say you can’t find the time. The statement would be complete hogwash. While Bill Clinton was president of the United States, he still managed to read a book a week. (and he had the responsibility of running our country!)
