May 2013: Editor
Spring, the time of year when nature goes through it’s rebirth, and for many of us humans, we clean out our closets, throw away the papers and things that have accumulated over time, and prepare for new beginnings. And like all life cycles, here we are again.
April was a month of tremendous tragedy, sadness and negative energy as we watched in horror the horrific events that unfolded on our TVs and in blogs, with the Boston marathon and the explosion in Texas. It’s hard to stay positive when we’re constantly bombarded with news that’s generally depressing. And our mainstream news media seems to be addicted to the degree of actually creating news that doesn’t even exist with often false reporting to help increase their ratings. So it’s even more important during dark days to make time in your life, and particularly in your mind, for thoughts and activities that counter the rage or other feelings that make you want to pull the covers over your head and just hang there for eons. Turning your anger into actively participating in changing those things you feel are unjust is a positive use of your energy, but it still keeps you focused on the things that you don’t like.
The first step, and for me one of the hardest being a news junkie, is to turn off the news. Find something that makes you smile and focus on all the amazing gifts we have around us. There are many things you can’t change. What you can change is where you put attention and your attitude. Remember the old saying, “Is the glass half-full or half-empty?”
So here are a few more ideas:
1. Movement is always a good way to change your mood. Exercise or merely stretching to music that’s soothing or energetic always makes me feel better. If you don’t belong to a gym, get a hula hoop, weights or a rebound trampoline. And don’t just stare at these items waiting for them to collect dust or be sold. Use them. Even 10 or 15 minutes a couple of times a day can make a huge difference in how you feel, especially if you set up a pattern of doing it daily or even every other day.
2) Read something that’s spiritual or uplifting in the way of affirmations, prayers or create your own around gratitude and give thanks for your many gifts. If you don’t think you have any, go to the bathroom and look in the mirror. You are a miracle and the greatest gift you will ever know. Be thankful for your life and the air you breathe.
3) Make time to be around the people that love you and enjoy your company, and find things to do together that make you laugh.
4) Get out and enjoy the many activities and programs in our community that would love your attendance. You’ll find many options and choices in this issue, including the wonderful play at San Marcos High School featured on our cover this month, Thoroughly Modern Millie.
Life is about finding balance, and my biggest wishes for you are that you get back on the bike if you fall, find time to celebrate life, and be happy.