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Wednesday Dec. 26, 2018

We easily recognize ‘obvious’ in others.

Not easily in ourselves …

Time of day, time of year or time of life do not explain; understanding is never automatic even though likely obvious to others …

My wish, my hope, not so much as ‘resolutions to be made’ but rather ‘focus to shift’, is to make my new year more conscious, more deliberate/clear in terms of what I see  vis-à-vis what I choose not to see. A new twist on the term ‘selfie’.

Solutions to problems are more likely within us than somewhere else; this space between feast days, between Christmas and New Year, ought to be more than leisure, more than a ‘year-end review’ or ‘2019 predictions’. Time for selfie-introspection.

How would you introduce your very good friend to a stranger – wouldn’t you be factual, complementary and enthusiastic, while leaving out ‘baggage’, history and shortcomings – focusing on the positive? Get it? …. OK, now go the mirror and introduce yourself to yourself that way.

I think we too often look at ourselves ‘whole’. We downplay our strengths because we mentally subtract our shortcomings – we average down for reasons of modesty or embarrassment or shame, rather than looking at the bright shiny superb person we are.

Yes, we can. We can spend a day, a week or whole year focused on how we are good, focused on what we are great at and focused on doing good work. Just that.

Imagine a day of that, a week. Imagine the whole year. Add calorie control, better exercise regime mixed with intermittent fasting – presto, a more perfect 2019.

I know I will.

What about you?

 

Reader feedback:

THANKFUL-DAY

Hi Mark, Than you for reminding me that I have a lot to be thankful for. I can complain about the weather, the futility of politics, the burden of taxes and many other issues but at the end of the day, I will not go hungry nor will I be without shelter. Merry Christmas and a healthy New Year, Mark, CG, Cobourg, ON 

Merry Christmas Mark to you and your family. I hope it is a joyous day for all. All the best to you and your followers for a healthy and happy 2019! MK, Calgary, AB

Merry Christmas Mark.  Please keep the gift of your daily musings coming to us through the New Year, RT, Vancouver, BC

Hi Mark, Thank you for your eloquent focus on the luxury of living and loving in the moment. All the best to you, JR, Calgary, AB

From Our Family to Yours we wish you Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!, MJ, Calgary, AB


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