It's September 2018 already - wow!

It's September already - wow! That is how I feel about every passing month in 2018. No other year has brought so many changes, month by month, in my life. This is more like, 'you are kidding me, right?' roller coaster ride, with stunning 'UPs' and some heart-wrenching 'LOWs.' [READ: Feeling depressed?]

                                                                              {Image: Pixabay}

                               

You know, there were days when I felt like there is no humanity left in this world. Swami often says, "Trust only in God." What a beautiful reminder, isn't it?

The silver lining is that the sun never stops shining and life goes on, right? We have to put ourselves together and face every challenge squarely. Not easy, but that is what real personal growth is finally about.

The most important lesson is that your happiness is your priority. No one else can safeguard it for you. Not your family members or your best friends.

The challenge is to find useful ways to cope with these feelings.  

You know, whatever takes you away from your pain and stress is just worth the time and effort.

You could learn a new language.

Train yourself to play a new game.

Ever tried the crossword or Sudoku? Give it a shot.

Watch the cheesiest movies ever and LOL!

Travel ...a LOT! There's no better way to broaden your horizons.

There are many wonderful things we can do with ourselves. 

For me, nothing beats the joy of being immersed in meditation. It is as important to my life as breathing fresh air. While the world around me does not change, the change that I can feel within me provides me with all the answers I want from my heart. That others care or choose not to care no longer causes sadness or disappointment. 

Through meditation, I have begun to learn that there are no 'others' or 'me versus them' - everything and everyone is a reflection of who I am and what "I" choose to see. We can overcome everything if we have faith and confidence. [MUST-READ! Amazing Tale of Peddabottu]

Okay, so here's what I am trying to say. 

The tough times are never going away. But we can find opportunities to grow ourselves through these tough tides. Wondering how?

Focus on the good. Always.