Shift of Focus

A man who as a physical being is always turned toward the outside, thinking that his happiness lies outside him, finally turns inward and discovers that the source is within him. -- Soren Kierkegaard

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"Whoever refreshes others, will themselves be refreshed."

Our family motto this year has already left me feeling so reinvigorated. We are enjoying living intentionally toward this goal. Hosting more dinners, answering (and making!) more phone calls, sending a note to those we love and lending a helping hand when we can.

We are by no means perfect and there is always room to improve, but this year has already started off so much better than last. Perhaps it's because we had a far less turbulent Christmastime and we've had a nice amount of distance- both physically and emotionally- from those that drag us down. But I'd like to think it's because we've shifted our focus and it's really starting to pay off.

Our lives have felt so peaceful. I can't begin to tell you what a blessing that is for us.

I, personally, have stopped waiting for others to come around. I've stopped letting my own happiness depend on the (often irrational) emotions of others. But most importantly, I'm focusing on my own happiness within. And I'm telling you...it's working.

We also have much to look forward to. A night out for Valentine's Day, Rian's birthday and a visit from my mom- all within the next 5 weeks. Now if only we could squeeze in a visit with my Dad and Mary things would be pretty close to perfect. Oh well, we'll just have to wait until Christmas I guess :)