Monday, February 4, 2013

Questioning My Intentions

I've been doing much better in regards to not complaining about my morning commute. I have been trying to see it as a precious gift of time in which to listen to God, be in His presence, and just enjoy the quiet rather than listen to music. I have been practising contemplative prayer, slow breathing, and have arrived at work much more relaxed!

This morning, however, a taxi driver ran me off the road in an act of utter rudeness. Before I could catch my breath, two more taxis zoomed past and cut me off. I was angry at the injustice of it and the lack of manners or thought to others' safety. I wanted to shout at them and give them a piece of my mind... and then I stopped myself.

"What are your intentions?" I asked myself. "Well, duh! To let them know that I saw what they did and it wasn't right!"... And then what? Arrive at work all wound up and grumpy about something you have no control over and cannot change? Umm... well, no...

I continued asking myself questions. "How do you want to begin your morning? In what mood do you want to arrive at work?" Rested, peaceful, ready for the busy morning, creating a warm environment filled with hospitality and good smells coming from the oven.

"Okay, then. Can you think of a better choice?" Sigh... Let it go. Refocus on listening, breathing, being. Enjoy the sunrise, be thankful for the gift of another day, and foster a sense of gratitude and contentment.

I have to confess, this was easier said than done, but I found that in questioning my intentions, I could define what was truly important and reset my course. It made a huge difference.

 

4 comments:

Unknown said...

I think examining our intentions should be the goal of all of us. I certainly need to. Diane

Not sure how to choose an identity.

Unknown said...

said...
I think examining our intentions should be the goal of all of us. I certainly need to. Diane

Lilia said...

Hi there, you have a very interesting blog and you seem like a really interesting person. I like how you think as well as would like to be your friend. Do you have an email address where we can correspond with each other. Rgds, Lilia

Anna said...

Thank you! You are welcome to correspond with me at ericksonza@gmail.com Looking forward to getting to know you!