Maybe This weight is a gift

Heavy.  That is how I feel.  Weighed down and overwhelmed.  I consider myself to be a person who looks on the bright side or can find good in most situations.  I can usually find the light even from a place of darkness.  But right now, that person is not here.  I am trying to let the things go that feel like they weighing me down, but can't quite put a finger on what they are.   It is such a weird feeling, the nagging feeling that tells you something is off.  I am hoping it will pass just as quick as it came on.  But if this week is any indicator, this feeling might be around for a few days.   

.....Deep breaths, remembering how much there is to be thankful for.   Gratitudes. 

These words by Max Ehrmann are ones I always keep close and help me to get through these times when I am feeling less than myself. 

Desiderata 

Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons,
they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. 
Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism. 
Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment
it is as perennial as the grass. 
Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself. 
You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. 
Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. 
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy. 


-Max Ehrmann

{be gentle with yourself. }







{You are a child of the universe,}












{no less than the trees and the stars;}

For now I will try to remember this, and breathe through it.