What’s to Gain?

I’ve known down in my life, but I wanted to gain a better life. Those times when life was beating down on me, I didn’t always handle well. Sometimes I wallowed in my misery. Sometimes I chose up.

I recently experienced what normally would have seemed like a down time. People around me acted upset. When I saw the situation, I had a choice. I could do what I had done so many times, or I could choose something different. It wasn’t easy, but I selected the option to head up. Now, I can’t say that I was perfect, but I was making an effort with real intent to be calm, nice, and forgiving. I knew that those around me were struggling with their emotions, and I didn’t want to add to the mix.

Rather than creating more tinder for the fire, I tried to own my part in the issues. When I found myself deflecting and pointing, I pulled it back and owned my part. I lifted others who were feeling beaten down. I found that I really did care.

The Gain is Peace and Love

You know how it feels when you discover something is true even though you thought you already knew it. This was one of those moments. I gained insight into what love is about.

I was forgetting myself and seeking to help others. It would have been easy to go into blame and crush everyone else, but what gain would any of us had in that case? I wanted something better, and I got it. I found more love for others. Peace permeated my heart. When I looked back on the situation, I had no reason to dislike anyone. I saw things as they were.

Things calmed down much faster than normal, and things got back to a more harmonious cadence. I even discovered some undesirable tendencies in my own behavior which now allows me to make conscious decisions to change them. The problems I faced were a real blessing to me in my attempts to be a better man. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from an uncomfortable situation.

What’s It About?

If you couldn’t tell, I am talking about a situation in my family. I wanted to be better for them. I am less self-conscious as I continue to practice things I have learned about managing my emotions and how to teach others to do the same. It is changing my life and those around me. I choose up in the down situations because I know that there is so much I can gain. I hope that you will choose in too. Let yourself forgive and give of your own heart.

I’d love to help you learn more. Please, let me know how I can help you. Life is too short to waste on trudging through the same old muck in your basement, so Lift your head up and see how well your can soar.