I’ve never been an overly religious person, but back in 2013 I was in need of something bigger than myself to help me through some hard times. I started going to church, and the feel good vibes I received helped me find peace in my tangled mind.
Religious or not, I find the messages given in settings like a church to be messages I want to live by: treat others well, share what you have, help when you can, and trust in the universe. Whatever your thoughts on higher powers are, I believe everyone should find something to believe in that’s bigger than us.
It was in this time that I discovered the power of positive thoughts. The moment I relinquished control over what was bothering me and trusted in the process was the moment I felt calm, and hopeful. This was years ago, but I have held onto this mindset and use it whenever I feel necessary. A calm mind is a happy mind.
One of the places I find the most solitude and peace is in nature. I discovered a sense of who I was the last couple years after diving head first into many hiking adventures, some solo, most with friends. There is something powerful about observing nature for what it’s worth and appreciating the effort that went into its creation.
On my recent trip to Portland, I found myself appreciating the beauty of nature from a religious standpoint while wandering around The Grotto. I was in absolute awe of the history here and the air around these trees felt lighter and full of life.
Although I don’t identify myself as a Catholic, the work that went into preserving the peace within this area is enough for anyone to appreciate. No matter your beliefs, in the end as long as you live a life of integrity, honesty, helpfulness, and trust the process – life becomes much easier.
I’ve been talking a lot about manifesting lately, and it’s something I’ve grown fond of. This universal practice of turning your thoughts into reality has been around for ages, and I’ve been putting all the things I want into the universe and slowly but surely the seeds I’m planting are starting to grow. As with most things, this takes time.
I set a goal of honoring my thoughts more this year, and paying attention to the waves that flow through my brain space. I truly believe life is too short to have worry, fear, anxiety, distress, and discomfort. These emotions come when we set our focus on the future, or the past, both of which are irrelevant because all we have is now.
My takeaway message is this: whatever you believe, you must believe in something. We are a much smaller piece of the worldly puzzle and having “something” to lean on when things get difficult helps make this life we create a much smoother ride.
Find your “Being” and run with it. This is a constant work in progress as life is one big mind game, and only those who can complete their puzzle come out on top.
Q: Where do you go to find peace and solitude? The trees, always the trees. And sometimes a bakery… 😉
