Keeping Our Center ~ Day 52

Never underestimate a few encouraging words. Years ago, on one of the most difficult days of my life, I received an unexpected voice message from a friend that simply said, “I know today is going to be tough, but keep your chin up and smile.” It was the last thing I felt like doing. In fact, I was more inclined to dig myself a hole and crawl in. But there was strength and reassurance in that message, perhaps even more so because it came from someone who was battling cancer at the time. He knew what a tough day really was. And in the midst of his own struggles, he reached out to me. His words became my mantra for that day, and for many days after.

We all have tough days (sometimes even weeks or months) when it feels like the world is caving in. Maybe it isn’t always practical to keep our chin up and smile, but I like the way it flies in the face of reason. It is like defying people and things and events to drag us down. It is hope for better tomorrows and confidence that this too shall pass. And, frankly, sometimes we have to fake it till we make it, right? I’m not suggesting we hide our sadness or hurt, it has its place and time. But sometimes we can’t get out of the gloomy places until we make the choice to try and emerge. Putting energy into being positive, draws positive energy, until it is more real than contrived.

This is the balance the spiritual life strives to achieve – being aware of what weighs us down, processing it so that we can release it, and at the same time focusing on our blessings and the positive in life so that we bring light to ourselves and others.

So, keep your chin up and smile! Or if you are already there, then send some encouragement to someone else. A few simple words can go a long way!

Love & Light!

Kaye