On a recent Sunday, I was out paddlesurfing with my husband at a nearby lake. The opportunity to be outside, under the blue sky and warm sun, presented so many reasons to be thankful for the present moment. There were countless sights and sounds- incredibly inspiring and beautiful to observe and take in. Thinking back, I can imagine my gratitude for being exactly where I was, moving my body and exhilarated for the challenge and relaxation ahead.
Unfortunately, that was not my initial reaction to the day. I went out on the water, in my head, with a bad ‘tude. I had decided I did not want to be there, and to no surprise, everything presented itself as a burden or challenge. Instead of excited about the wind and waves, I grunted quietly to myself how I did not want to be there. The thoughts and muttering continued…
A short time later, my husband gazed back at me, and simply said “bend your knees and smile.” Oh, to be given a taste of your own medicine…to be told something your know in your heart is the truth…a few moments passed. I slowly gave way, softened my clenched jaw, softened my focus on being in a bad mood…softened my knees…eventually trying on that idea of smiling.
I melted my exterior a bit-with an intention to do so. Within minutes, my heart softened and I became a lot better company for myself and my husband. I will now remember my husband’s words as something to help me while I am in a hardened place.
Leave a comment