October 2003 Inner Diablog
102503
A Network
for Grateful Living
Diving deep into the miracle of life.
In the hustle and bustle of this modern world we often take for
granted the simple, beautiful things in life. Close friends, loving
mates, awesome nature, cute animals, innocent children, and our own
creative gifts.
These simple things can be enjoyed each and every day and don't
cost us a cent — yet they are often pushed aside as we hurry
through life trying to get to "the next level" of our careers,
education, material, social, and family status.
While the 'next level' is an important element related to our fulfillment
in life, appreciating our lives as they are at this moment is crucial
to cultivating an 'attitude of gratitude' that will ultimately make
our lives more joyful.
I invite you to spend a few minutes reflecting on the everyday miracles
and good things happening in your life today. Why not make a list
of them and hang it on your refrigerator door to remind yourself
how fortunate you really are.
101803
The Four Agreements
While moseying through the book aisle at Target last Saturday, I
spotted a book on the shelf that brought back the memory of someone's
signature line on a discussion board I used to visit.
The signature belonged to someone I admired and respected very much,
and reflected the gist of the principles outlined in the book. The
book is titled: The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz.
I picked up the book and noticed this on the back cover:
"Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, the Four Agreements offer
a powerful code of conduct that can rapidly transform our lives
to a new experience of freedom, true happiness, and love."
Yep, this is the one, I thought to myself. Who wouldn't
want to read a book with such power for transformation!" (slight
snarkasm)
Alas, putting faith in the recommendation of my admired person's
signature, I purchased the book. And since I am a devourer of Celestine-like
self-awareness books and information, I finished reading it sometime
between Tuesday and Wednesday.
The Four Agreements:
- Be impeccable with your word.
- Don't take anything personally.
- Don't make assumptions.
- Always do your best.
I enjoyed the book. It did give me a different perspective on my
relationships with others, and probably expanded my toolbox of coping
tools I can use to survive the unpleasantries of the world.
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