Thoughts become things.
This is a key principle of much spiritual teaching. So, “Great!” you say. “I’ll just think happy, loving thoughts and all will be well.” And it works… for a while… until you’re running late and stuck behind someone driving just under the speed limit. Or, the perfectly organized, productive day you planned is derailed by yet another crisis, and sick-and-tired you can’t seem to catch a break. Sometimes it’s nearly impossible to muster those happy, loving, benevolent thoughts.
And that’s okay.
When all you can think is, “Crap!” we say, go ahead! Be annoyed. Be scared. Be angry. Be whatever you feel in the moment on those days when life is giving you lemons and you can’t remember how to make lemonade.
Yes, that’s right. You get to have all your thoughts and feelings.
And then you get to choose the ones that serve you the best.
On those days when it’s all going to hell in hand basket, start humming your favorite song. Eat a donut. Go outside and breathe. Write a haiku. Pay for the next person’s latte. Look in the mirror and smile.
Find the real you. The pure you.
And when you do, those loving thoughts will come. And joy will follow.