On Your Heart

There are times we skate through day upon day and do not really delve deep into thoughts and feelings. There are times when we don't stop to listen to what is happening to those around us. We pay no attention to ourselves and where we are going or what we are trying to achieve. We don't listen to our hearts.
But, then there are days upon days when we do. Lately here are some of the things my heart is saying to me:
Live a little better and appreciate a little more. I was overhearing two old ladies in the grocery store while I was searching for a dessert idea in aisle three. One was talking about how her dog wouldn't behave right since her husband passed. Their conversation went on to health insurance costs. I saw myself in future years and felt a pang of fear amid my concern for these two women.
Appreciate every aspect of beauty in everyone, including yourself. Time and time again I am reminded that beauty is only skin deep. We put way too much stock in outward appearance and miss the inner beauty of the people around us and ourselves. A person is only as beautiful as her heart. If we don't look through the outer shell, we will miss the inner gorgeousness. There are many, many people who 'look' perfect and beautiful but their insides are yucky. Don't miss the inside of those around you.
Be glad for rules. We recently made a written budget and we are sticking to it with fervor. This feels good because when money controls you, instead of you controlling it, you find you have less. I am glad for the rules and structure that a budget gives. There is comfort in some rules.
Laugh more. Sitting around a dinner table with friends and laughing over little jokes is one of the most cathartic situations we can put ourselves. We should experience these to enhance the chance of laughing. It is good for us. Nothing has to be terribly funny. If you get a bunch of people together from different walks of life...there will be laughing!
Love your mother more. I watched mother and daughter sit together at a dinner party and was overjoyed at their compatibility and joyful interactions. It warmed my heart to see how close they were. I was touched that the daughter would spend this quality time with her mother. I was envious and thrilled. I know I won't have my mother forever. We should love our mother's more.
Stay connected to dear ones. Reconnecting with a dear friend is special. We let too much time pass by between those connections. It is always life-affirming when I get a chance to rekindle a friendship. I become lazy and/or too focused on my living-room couch and I don't get out there and visit! We must share our lives with others. It is an integral part of living well.
Listen to your heart this week. What is it saying to you? What lessons might you miss if you don't?

Take Good Care Today.