But what about those other times? Is it possible to have thoughts of gratitude during the times when we're stuck in traffic, late for an appointment and that annoying other driver decides to jump the queue because he is that much more important than the 50 other drivers waiting to make the same turn? Or how about the times when that loving partner has done the very thing that you have asked him/her kindly five million times not to do? Is it possible to have feelings of gratitude for that person at that moment?
Can we weave these thoughts and prayers of gratitude into both the positive and negative moments of our lives?
A year ago when my son was visiting for the holidays we were driving around Dubai and we were stuck in one of those aforementioned traffic jams, complete with queue jumpers. As the driver, I was noticeably frustrated and I'm sure that there were more than a few colourful, angry words coming from my lips. Noticing my angst, my son calmly said, 'Mom, don't get so upset. This just means that we get to spend a little more time together." What a turn-around his words caused to my mood and attitude. Suddenly the queue jumpers weren't selfish jerks, they were people who gave me the chance to spend a little more time with one of the most important people in my life.
Similarly, instead of being upset about an argument with a loved one or colleague, I can feel thankful that we have the opportunity to face issues that need to be cleared up.
Over a year ago I wrote about a being attacked in a taxi during a trip to Central America. When I was eventually released from the taxi by the driver and his accomplice I was emotionally shaken but not seriously physically hurt. I remember that I felt flooded with feelings of gratitude. I felt grateful to God for providing inner strength in a situation where I felt powerless but I also felt grateful to the thieves who attacked me. As strange as it may sound, I still feel grateful to them for not doing all of the horrible things that they could have done. They had a choice about how far they would take their criminal activity. I had a choice about how I would deal with the feelings I had in the aftermath of the attack.
Each and every one of us can choose which attitude we will adopt in our daily lives. Will you choose an attitude of blame, anger, frustration and negativity or will you adjust your focus to see all that this particular challenge offers you then offer a prayer of gratitude for the opportunity?
Spring is a time of renewal, a time of starting over. Why not give your attitude a make over and adjust your focus to highlight the countless opportunities in your life to concentrate on gratitude?
Fields of Yoga Dubai
April & May 2015 Class Schedule
April & May 2015 Class Schedule
Mondays @ the home studio, 60 aed pp
HATHA FLOW in the Garden 7:30pm-8:45pm
Wednesdays @ the home studio, 60 aed pp
YIN YOGA 7:30pm-8:45pm
Saturdays @ beach in Umm Suqeim 1
SUNRISE BEACH YOGA 7am-8:15am
