With the 10th anniversary of 9/11 approaching, we as Americans are taking a strong look back at the reality of this horrific day that lives in infamy. It took us by surprise, hit us on our home turf, destroyed numerous innocent lives and left a hole in the heart of our country. This tragedy also brought together a nation that seemed to be taking each other for granted. Displays of heroism were abundant and patriotism was re-ignited. We all felt proud to exclaim “I am an American!” In tragedy comes triumph, or does it?
As we look ahead, it seems that most Americans are displeased with the direction in which our great nation is headed. As we bow our heads in reflection of 10 years ago, we are consumed with worry of our future. Life has changed dramatically. Jobs are scarce, the stock market unstable, people are hungry and homeless.
How does this affect our wellness? Even if our personal lives are going along without a glitch, this all adds a heaping dose of stress onto us. We worry about more, enjoy less. What would happen if we stopped listening to the news? What if we didn’t pay attention to the political posturing for the 2012 campaign until it got closer to the actual time to vote? What would our lives be like if we focused inward, blocking out the extraneous noise in our lives?
Lately I’ve been talking about learning to be present. By focusing inward, we become present to our individual life. We learn the choices we can make in order to live purposeful lives. And when we live on purpose, we find balance and wellness. So when the news focuses on stories that upset you, it is okay to change the station (just like you do when your inner critic starts talking too loudly) and focus inward to figure out what you can do to make a positive impact in your life and the ones of those you care about.
Be Present, Be Purposeful, Be Well.
