Solstice Reflection: On Being Present...

I checked out today's entry from my 2008 Solstice Reflections and thought it was worth sharing. Because sometimes we need a reminder...

From the archives, December 18, 2008:

"I got the blues thinking of the future, so I left off and made some marmalade. It's amazing how it cheers one up to shred oranges and scrub the floor."
- D.H. Lawrence
During the past few days I've been caught up in a flurry of (for the most part) self-imposed to-dos and expectations. I'm finding it difficult to stay in the moment, my head always swimming with a list of things I need or want to complete before a certain date. Quite frankly it's draining me of festive cheer, leaving me feeling increasingly detached, cranky and on edge.
 
That's not who I want to be.

I think the key to breaking the negative cycle is bringing myself back to the moment. If I'm wrapping gifts, I'm wrapping gifts - not worrying about household chores. If I'm having dinner, I'm having dinner - not crafting my next blog post. If I'm crafting a blog post, I'm crafting a blog post. Period.

So tonight I put a call out to my Higher Power for help living in the now. It's easier said than done, but I will practice. Or maybe I just need to take a break to make my own batch of marmalade. :)

Word(s) of the day: stillness, rest, clarity, focus, presence, moment, flow, breather, perfection, expectations, letting go

~~~

Sounds of the Season: Because Vince Guaraldi's music soothes me, and A Charlie Brown Christmas brings me joy...