How Did You End Your Day?

Yesterday was a normal day, which almost ended badly until I made a choice.  What happened was that I could see someone else’s life “muck” creeping into mine and I stopped and asked myself: do I want to end my day in a closed off, angry way or do I want to end it with love and energy?  I chose the latter.

Maybe the best way to look at life is how we end our day.  Are we able to look back and shake our head, marveling at the craziness of the day? Or are we closing our eyes and shutting people out, exhausted from the energy necessary to be angry or frustrated? Let me say right here and now – I don’t want that life and I am going to make an effort not to end my days like that.  It is a waste of time and energy.

I was with my personal trainer yesterday (yes, the one luxury I afford myself!) and he told me that I had a positive vibe … an aura of happiness and genuineness. Then he asked, “Are you happy?” (I love that question!). Of course, I said “Yes!”  I have trials and tribulations like everyone else. Money seems elusive at times, a single mom, three kids, a job, a house to keep up, etc., etc. But, I would have to say that I am generally happy.

His next questions, “To what do you attribute your happiness and how do you stay happy in the face of all the craziness of life?” (I love those questions even more!). Hmm … I choose to be happy. I try to forgive myself and others.  I try to be thankful for what I have and to see the good in situations (even those that are not-so-good).  Like yesterday – I had a small spat with my son as I was leaving the house. Instead of dwelling on it, I texted him (thank g-d for phones!), said I was sorry and that I hoped he had a nice day. Then, I let it go and used my energy for more positive things.

I often look back on my day and see (and write about) the “stuff” that happened — and that’s ok. But I think the biggest question of all is, “How did you end your day?”  Friends, that’s the ticket!

No matter how bad, frustrating or disappointing your day was, you can always go into your kids’ rooms and kiss them goodnight. You can clean the kitchen and pick up the living room and know that you will feel great about it when you wake up. You can write a message to one of your close friends and let them know how fantastic they are. And then, you can close your eyes with a smile on your face. Maybe, life is just that simple.

Life – or living it – is a choice. No matter what happens, choose to end each day with love and gratitude.

Have a great day!