Terms considered thus far:
Acceptance - Boundaries - Compassion - Discretion - Empathy -
Forgiveness - Gratitude - Honesty - Integrity - Joy - Kindness - Leisure
MARVEL - swept up and filled with wonder, unbridled, child-like
fascination, awestruck in the presence of something or someone far
beyond the scope of what one would normally expect to experience. Such
open, unedited thoughts and feelings open the mind and refresh the
spirit.
NOBLE - of the highest moral quality, honest and balanced, pure and
above reproach. No selfishness, shortcuts or cutting of corners in
one's actions or private intentions.
OFFING - that part of the sea visible from shore but beyond anchorage.
In terms of living fully and well the expression "in the offing" refers
to something that is nearly ready, or soon to happen. Taking note of
optimism in even small things often generates positive energy that can
be re-invested once recognized.
PASSION - (No, not that kind...!) the ability to feel strongly about an
issue, an activity or a cause, such that one's deep convictions become
crystal clear and one is moved to be actively engaged - intellectually,
physically, spiritually - in its pursuit. Most useful when applied
positively with due respect for others' rights and perspectives as well.
QUIET - no need to try to expand on Funk and Wagnall's many references
to peacefulness and well being. "1. Making little or no noise. 2.
Having little or no motion; still; calm. 3. Characterized by silence;
retired or secluded: a quiet nook. 4. Free from excessive activity,
turmoil or vexation. (Can you imagine dawn's bird songs or distant surf
rolling right about now?) 5. Gentle, mild. 6. Restful to the eye;
reposeful. 7. Not showy or pretentious; modest. 8 Not loud or brash;
reserved."
(Funk & Wagnall's Standard Desk Dictionary, Lippincott & Crowell 1980)
Not that we could, or should, always be quiet, but understanding the
demeanor and being able to pursue it when appropriate can de-escalate
rising internal stress and even dissipate potential conflict situations.
REVERIE - abstract musing, daydreaming - all too often considered in the
context of wasted time or energy. Actually, quite the opposite is
true. As a brief stretch or coffee break in the work day actually
improves productivity, moments of time (within reasonable limits) spent
in open-ended pondering frees up one's mind, excites the spirit and
awakens the thinking process.
SLEEP - no special nuance or connation here, but simply a requirement
for health, wellness and happiness. So far as we know there are no
legitimate, long term ways to cheat or shortchange our need for an
adequate quality and quantity of sleep. Deprivation here has been
linked to problems ranging from blood pressure to body weight,
depression to dementia. Getting enough can elevate moods, improve
cognitive functioning and even help with weight management.
Call Solutions EAP at 1-800-526-3485 for assistance for all of life's
challenges.It's free, confidential and open to your family members.
Check us out on-line at http://www.solutions-eap.com/
