When the proverbial 2×4 of life takes a swing at me (or in this case multiple 2×4’s) i can react and either complain chose to be a victim and let it beat me down. Or, i can take the 2×4 and build something with it. Use it to strengthen my foundation, see it as building material for an addition to my current plans that i didn’t even know i needed. Taking what could have been a tragedy and seeing it as part of my destiny.
Yea, it’s deep, but it’s the truth. My mom always said, “You can either let things get you down, or you can choose to grow from them, and I’ve got stretch marks from some of the experiences i’ve been thru.”
I’ve been thinking a lot these past few weeks, and reading, and i’ve decided that I’m going to build something amazing with these 2×4’s that keep coming my way.
1st – I’m getting organized, putting my house in order. I’ve taken over 500 articles of clothing to good will, and then sold the nicer things to a 2nd hand clothing shop and made $40 bucks. I’ve filed away all bills and statements from this year and even a few from last year. Finally i even went thru all my old jewelry and cleaned it. (Using tin foil in a glass dish with backing soda and boiling water, works amazing on tarnished silver and it’s free). Then i made a pile of pieces i will actually wear and added the rest to another good will pile. Next is to continue making larger good will piles. Stop holding on to things i might get around to using in 5 yrs. Give them to someone who will use them in the mean time.
2nd – Taking care of myself. Something i’ve always struggled with. My natural instinct is to feel guilty or lazy if i take time for me. The other day i slept in, exercised, then took a shower all before hanging out with the kids. I was feeling guilty for them having to wait an hour playing by themselves. Then when i came out i was energized at 100% and was able to give them quality time. Rather then all day with a mom at 50%. It was a huge ah-ha moment for me.
3rd – Strengthening my self. I’ve decided that i can use these 2×4 and strengthen.
“Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.” – Marianne Williamson
That in mind, I see my self as a strong individual not a victim. I have so much strength. I just hide it. The strength i have is a gift, and i want to make sure i avoid being prideful. Like the strong personalities who just plow everyone over in their path. So strength with humility.
4th – Follow my passion. I’m a firm believer that I have a gift or strengths in certain areas that I was born with. I want to make sure i use and strengthen those gifts to help others and to make a difference in the world.
When all is said and done I’ll look back and even be grateful for the 2×4’s that have been given too me. It’s amazing what perspective can give.
Recipe – Immune Boosting Green Blender
1/2 – apple chopped finely
1 – carrot (use peeler to peal layers and chop)
1/2 – cucumber (chopped with skin)
1/2 C – blueberries
2 leafs – romain lettuce (or 1 cup spinach)
1 C- apple juice (or water if you want to keep it extra healthy)
2 T – lemon juice
Blend and drink with a straw (especially if you use celery or omitted the apple juice it will help you drink it fast without it hitting the taste buds at the tip of your tongue which are more sensitive to certain flavors) This is not a snack this is a “drink it cuz you would rather do that then chew down a salad that you will only drench in fatty dressing” kind a of drink. Or, a “drink it cuz you know it will help you get over your cold” kind of drink.
Hope you all enjoying the holidays and if any 2×4’s come your way make something good out of them.
December 6th, 2011 at 3:59 pm
I like your attitude! It’s not easy to get up and do things when life gets tough. Great job! And I love that you allowed yourself to take care of yourself! I think that’s so important!!!
December 8th, 2011 at 8:21 am
You’re right, it’s all about perspective…thanks for a great post! Happy holidays, Krystal!
December 22nd, 2011 at 10:22 pm
Thanks Faith, Happy Holidays to you too.
December 31st, 2011 at 7:12 am
Wishing you a happy & healthy 2012!