Thoughts this Sunday

Sundays are usually the day when the hustle and bustle of life seems to grind to a halt. Wallow in its quietude and enjoy the inspiration that comes with this beautiful day. It will recharge and prepare you for tomorrow. MoMoGrow

Calls
I love Sundays. It is "usually" the day when one gets to relax and re-energize. I am aware that it is not the same for everyone however - it is not always the same for me. I was taken away from my relaxation for a while today as well. I am not complaining however. In the midst of it all, I received a few consecutively phone calls. There were from 4 family members who all live abroad. It is not unusual for my family to call during the weekend but it is odd/coincidental to get calls almost back-to-back. At some point I wondered whether my family was not telling me something. I was wondering whether a loved one passed away but it's not the case. My family was simply reaching out because they cared.

Fortunately or unfortunately, the calls got me thinking about my beloved grandma. There was zero subtlety when she passed away and the news was conveyed. It was just blurted out by my youngest down to earth - no fluff or frills aunt. I answered the phone with a chirpy,
"Hello - how are you?" and she answered,
"Good but mama died."
I said, "What?"
She said yes,
"Your grandma died!!"
It took a while to sinked in and the rest is history. This post is not about remorse or sadness. It is ultimately a reminder about gratitude.

Beatrixpark - April 2023

Gratitude
Today, I am very grateful.

• I am grateful for the calls from loved ones which reminded me of my grandma.
• I am grateful that I have fond memories of my grandmother and the love and discipline she bestowed unto me.
• I am grateful for life and and the ability to ponder on these thoughts and lots more.

I became calmer on this tranquil Sunday as I stopped to consider and focus on what I am grateful for.
It is inevitable - when one thinks about gratitude, one becomes happier, as the focus is only on what is good in one's life. A focus on gratitude changes our mood. A focus on gratitude - will therefore trigger the happiness hormone. Whilst thinking about all things to be grateful for - big and small - we become more present. It is like being in a day dream. We then realise - that all is well - no matter what. We become more accepting.

Making it a habit
As this feeling of gratitude is somewhat temporary - it is good to take time out to be grateful daily. Ok - that might be too much for our busy lives but at least once a week. I use to keep a journal but that did not last. I try to jot things down on random pieces of paper though. I realise that being grateful keeps me positive - so why not make it a habit. I am often reminded by these notes, (especially when I look back) that no matter what is happening - it does not last forever or a solution arrives after a while. I am reminded that things could also be worse than it is. As a result, I endeavor to remain grateful and it keeps me positive.

It is amazing how things can be. The phone calls basically triggered memories of my grandma; this then reminded me to be grateful which led to me feeling happier than before the phone rang.

I hope you are enjoying a thoughtful and relaxing Sunday.

The photo is my own