What do you do when you’re having a challenging week? Do you go into overwhelm, victim mode or think ‘Why me?’ It’s so easy to do, isn’t it?

People who ask themselves questions like ‘What can I learn from this situation?’ or ‘What can I do differently next time?’ often bounce back from dark places of despair a lot quicker than those who don’t.

I find doing things that bring me joy when I’m having a difficult time is also very helpful. This week has been challenging in several ways, so I’ve chosen to nurture my inner child more than usual. Today I went to a children’s party session at the library. It marked the end of the local library’s summer reading quest. I enjoyed listening to the librarians read and act out silly stories, pulling funny faces and dancing with the preschool kids and the ‘loopy librarian’. It was so much fun, and concluded with a treasure hunt around the library. Everyone who found the six hidden animal pictures and answered the questions about them were able to choose a prize. I chose a lovely Nemo eraser which I can pass on to my granddaughter.

Another thing I do to keep up my spirits when needed is to read my collection of positive sayings and some of the lovely letters and emails I’ve received from people over the years.

Looking at my collection of positive sayings can also be helpful. I’d like to share some of the more meaningful ones I have with you. I hope some or all of these resonate with you.

‘Nothing worth having comes easy’. (source unknown).

‘Happiness is when what you think, what you say and what you do are in harmony’. (Mahatma Ghandi).

‘Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old’. (Frank Kafka).

And finally….

 

‘Everything I Need To Know I Learnt From My Dog

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

When it’s in your best interest, practice obedience.

Let others know when they’ve invaded your territory.

Take naps and stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.

Be loyal.

Never pretend to be something you’re not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

No matter how often you’re scolded, don’t buy into the guilt thing and pout….run right back and make friends.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk’.

(source unknown)

As I write out these words, I think of Prince, our dear King Charles Cavalier, whom we were blessed to have for seven years until his heart failed in 2010. I dedicate this post to his memory.

Wishing all of you a meaningful week.

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