Cut Yourself Some Slack

Today's thought is:

Often I need to cut myself and others some slack. When I remind myself to lighten up, the intensity of the situation diminishes.
-- Lisa Keyes

Most of us have honed, quite skillfully, our ability to take most situations far too seriously. Perhaps if we were as careful to hone our skill of relying on our Higher Power to see us through situations, we'd more fully enjoy the moments God gives us.

Our struggle with perfectionism, coupled with our need to control outcomes, makes us experience life far too gravely. At the root of these character traits lies fear. We may not recognize our behavior as fear-based. However, were we not anxious about unfolding events, we'd feel peaceful and free to pursue activities that would reward us with the spiritual growth this program has promised.

Being reminded to lighten up may irritate us and feel like criticism at the time, but this advice can quickly change how we feel. After all, what we want is more serenity in our lives. We simply need reminders about how to attain it. Lightening up is one of the best and simplest of reminders.

I will remind myself to lighten up today as many times as it takes to feel some peace.

You are reading from the book:
A Woman's Spirit by Karen Casey
Copyright 1994 by Hazelden Foundation.