Post updates by email:


I’ve often shared on previous blog posts about how I believe that sometimes in life we must surrender to what is present and accept. And in doing so, learn something from it.

Presently, I am doing this.

Like so many of you and others, we are going through a time of strain in our lives. The world seems to be in an unsettling and somewhat chaotic place. Finances are tight, jobs are being lost, tensions seem to abound, and people appear more angry.

There is a great deal of uncertainty and fear in the air.

And I can totally understand feeling this way, because I find myself juggling finances each month, holding off on purchasing things that are not absolutely necessary, and cutting back in general. It seems like I just get the monthly bills paid, and then suddenly the first of the next month arrives and I have to pay them all over again.

This past summer my hours at work were reduced again considerably, so I had to take on extra freelance work to help supplement my monthly income. I also had a dental emergency come up, which I had to pay for out of my own pocket. Things were a bit unsettling, but I got through it.

However, now that the fall season has kicked in I am working more than enough hours; catching up on my normal bill paying routine, and can relax.

Also, and some of you already know this, I would really like to move.

Back to NYC.

But with my present job security, I have to stay put and wait for the correct time because there are no jobs available in what I do right now, with the strain and apprehension in retail.

I desire a change of location, however a physical change is not possible at the moment, therefore a change in my perception has been needed.

This is one of those times in my life, when I know that I have to accept and surrender to what is. And it’s not always easy, because at times a part of me dwells on what I want, and another part of me truly believes that what I presently have is exactly all I need at the moment.

And yet, this experience has been teaching me some valuable life lessons.

Like, to live in the moment and notice all the wonderful things I already have, which is a lot. I have health, a job, a roof over my head, family and friends, (which includes all of YOU), and that I am cared for and loved.

Perhaps in the bigger scheme of things, this stressful time the world is going through is happening for a reason other than just the obvious.

Perhaps the Universe is showing us that even when uncertainty is going on all around us, we still have the ability to find peace, security and contentment.

And that perhaps this is an opportunity to stop, notice, and appreciate the simple and basic things in life, when times are tough.

If you really think about it, what the world is going through right now is nothing new. We’ve been through this in past generations and have rejuvenated.

As we will again.

So in the meantime, I plan to stay put, count my blessings, and stay attentive to each moment as it comes.

Because really, peace is right here.

Right now.




Wishing you a peaceful weekend everyone!

X

56 comments:

  1. I have never needed to read something like this as much as I did right now!

    I'm sure you, and most of the free world know how badly I want to move to Los Angeles. My new baby niece is there. The ocean is there! My home in the land of corn and white bread refuses to sell. *sigh*

    I have lost my job, and have been using this time to relax and regroup. I have however forgotten the very simple fact that somehow I am still keeping the roof over my head, and my blonde princess in puppy food. So many out there have lost even that. I do need to stop and appreciate what I have at this moment. It may not be what I want, what my heart yearns for, but it's best to remember that for whatever reason I am suppose to be here for a bit longer.

    Thank you for your wisdom, and for your beautiful heart.

    You know I think the world of you!

    xoxo
    ~vk~

    ReplyDelete
  2. hi dahlink, well, this is one of those posts that blows me away and you do every once in awhile, where you speak such profound and simple truths that i just go "oh yeah..." you are so right, my sweet friend, to notice and appreciate the simple moments in time, each of them one by one is sometimes all we CAN do to survive the struggle...we must stop struggling but we have to notice we are struggling first and most are trying so hard not to notice their discomfort...so BRAVO to you for speaking your truth to so many who read your precious words...you mean the world to me and like you, i too believe it will get better and if not, there is so much to be thank-full for, like our friendship.xx

    ReplyDelete
  3. You speak my mantra Ron. The world situation, my health condition this past two years and just being middle aged has heightened my awareness to what you write about. It is hard as an American to just be happy with what you have. We are programmed to want more and more. This is forced down our throats with advertising, political agenda and everything else. But in the end we muddle through because as humans we are programmed that way. We survive! That is what is important. I am glad to be your friend and use blogging to help cope and connect with others who feel the same way as I do.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Hi Ronnie,
    You know, we all pass through these moments. I am currently going through al ot of strees and strain too.
    And yes, with also wants for elsewhere and otherwise....
    But, there is also the reality, with work,obligations and paperwork. In other words, the Universe is saying to us "Guys, it is not time yet!"

    I have said to D " don't focus too much on the big picture". Just the small things, and working things out one by one.

    I think that you will be fine honey, and when the Universe is going to put NYC as an oppurtunity, GRAB!!!

    Big hugs and happy weekend xoxo

    ReplyDelete
  5. Ron, I'm sorry that things are tight on your end, but I do like your perspective and attitude about it. Some things are beyond our control, and all we can do is make the best of our situatons. With a positive approach like yours, things can only get better.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Oh how I wish the rest of the world could read your post. All I hear now are moans, groans and anger. You're right, we've been through this before and survived. I remember wage freeze times and hardship, I remember having a mere penny halfpenny in my purse and a child to feed. I also remember that I had a job (for which I was truly thankful) and friends. Together we formed a plan to get us through, a contest to see who came up with the best labour and cost saving ideas. It was challenging and fun, it lifted the spirits, and it saw us through to the times when we had more money to spend. We called it the true British Grit but it really applies to mankind in general. Our trouble is, we got greedy and careless. Oh yes, I wish many more could read your post. Keep smiling, my friend.

    ReplyDelete
  7. what a beautiful post ron. i know how you feel, the wanting to move on, relocate, that is, but can't just yet. when the time is right, you'll know it. until then we CAN count our blessings - it's easy to B&moan, i do it, it makes me feel better - but after all is said and done i have plenty of blessings now and an army of people who love me. things are not the way i want them, but they aren't so bad either.

    ReplyDelete
  8. staying in the moment is something I work on doing
    funny to say work on but that's what is necessary for me - I tend to worry about the future and mull too much on the past

    acceptance is another quality I'm trying to fine tune - that one is harder for me, especially physical limitations or the stuff going on with my DIL

    but I try, and trying is the journey I think

    and I make myself laugh, and try to make others laugh as well
    laughter is healing

    I love you Ron, you're a good soul

    Hope sends hugs

    ReplyDelete
  9. Good Morning Vixen Kitten~

    First, I've got to give you a BIG hug...

    (((( Vixen Kitten )))))

    Your comments are always so appreciated and enjoyed.

    Yes, my friend...I know that you too have gone through a lot in the past year with your job changes and also your desire to move to LA. But to me, your wonderful positive attitude has ALWAYS been evident in your blog posts; knowing that you are grateful for what you have, and that things you desire will come to you when the time is right.

    Whenever I see photos of your blonde princess on your blog, I can't help but see how much you are loved, and how much you love her!

    "Thank you for your wisdom, and for your beautiful heart.

    You know I think the world of you"

    Ditto, dear one!

    Wishing you a beautiful weekend!

    X to you and the blonde girl!

    ReplyDelete
  10. Well, the boys on the Phillies have nothing on you, dear Vent. It looks like they aren't the only ones knocking it out of the park these days. Terrific, thought-provoking post. As one who seems to constantly strain at the bindings to get onto the next chapter, this wisdom is just what the Doctor Vent ordered. Best to you, my friend. EFH

    ReplyDelete
  11. Good Morning Dearest Linda~

    Thank you for your sweet and kind words, my friend. They mean a lot to me.

    "...we must stop struggling but we have to notice we are struggling first and most are trying so hard not to notice their discomfort..."

    WOW...you shared a plethora of truth in that! You said it...we have to NOTICE that we are struggling first. Somehow in embracing our discomfort, it loses it's power over us. And in turn, we notice our many blessings.

    I know that you have been through many challenges, and yet your appreciation of your blessings is always evident in the beautiful art work and photos that you share on your blog.

    You are a prime example of peace.

    "you mean the world to me and like you, i too believe it will get better and if not, there is so much to be thank-full for, like our friendship."

    (((( Linda ))))

    Thank you for our close friendship!

    Have a beautiful weekend!

    xoxoxoxox

    ReplyDelete
  12. When things are tight it's good to remember the Reiki Precepts isn't it Ron? In particular

    'I will be thankful for my many blessings'

    and that's exactly what you're doing. When the time is right your move will happen. xxxx

    ReplyDelete
  13. Goooood Morning Susie~

    Yes dear lady, I know that you and I have shared much of the same beliefs throughout this past year, and it comforts me to know that you understand.

    OMG, you said a mouthful of truth....

    "It is hard as an American to just be happy with what you have. We are programmed to want more and more. This is forced down our throats with advertising, political agenda and everything else."

    And this exactly why I think that perhaps at this time, it gives us the opportunity to stop and notice all the little (but important) things that really matter.

    "But in the end we muddle through because as humans we are programmed that way. We survive! That is what is important."

    Yes...we survive!

    " I am glad to be your friend and use blogging to help cope and connect with others who feel the same way as I do."

    I feel the same way, Susie!

    Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your wisdom on this post. Much appreciated!

    Have a faaaaaaaaaabulous weekend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  14. Bonjour Barbara~

    "You know, we all pass through these moments. I am currently going through al ot of strees and strain too."

    Absolutely! And I know that you too have been through these moments this past year, so you totally understand.

    "In other words, the Universe is saying to us "Guys, it is not time yet!"

    Exactly...it's not time yet!

    "I have said to D " don't focus too much on the big picture". Just the small things, and working things out one by one."

    Excellent Barb, because you are soooooooo right!

    And yes, when the opportunity arises to move to NYC, I will definitely GRAB it!

    Thank you so much for stopping by and sharing on this post, my friend! Always enjoyed and appreciated!

    Big hugs and a happy weekend to you too!

    (((( Barb ))))

    xoxoxo

    ReplyDelete
  15. Howdy Matty!

    Thanks for your supportive and kind words, neighbor!

    "Some things are beyond our control, and all we can do is make the best of our situatons."

    I've been through this before and it's all worked out, so I have great faith that it will again. Actually, things have smoothed out considerably, now that the fall season in retail has kicked in.

    I so look forward to the rest of the year!

    Thanks for stopping by, Matty!

    Wishing you and your family a beautiful weekend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  16. Gooooood Morning Valerie~

    Oh how I wish the rest of the world could read your comment...it's BRILLIANT, dear lady. Just brilliant!

    "Together we formed a plan to get us through, a contest to see who came up with the best labour and cost saving ideas. It was challenging and fun, it lifted the spirits, and it saw us through to the times when we had more money to spend."

    BRAVA!!!!

    Isn't it amazing how when times are tough, we seem to pull together and support one another; lifting our spirits?

    Like you, I've been through this before, but it all worked out.

    MUCH thanks for your uplifting words, humor, and beautiful spirit.

    You're a GEM!

    Have a beautiful weekend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  17. Good Morning V~

    "I know how you feel, the wanting to move on, relocate, that is, but can't just yet. when the time is right, you'll know it. until then we CAN count our blessings"

    AMEN!

    "it's easy to B&moan, i do it, it makes me feel better"

    OMG, I do it too. And yes, it does make me feel better because sometimes we simply have to vent, ya know?

    "but after all is said and done i have plenty of blessings now and an army of people who love me. things are not the way i want them, but they aren't so bad either."

    You said it, girl!

    Peace is here.

    Thanks soooooooooo much for stopping by and sharing, V. Always enjoyed!

    Have a grrrrrrreat weekend. I hear it's gonna be beautiful!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  18. Good Morning Lady Dianne~

    "staying in the moment is something I work on doing

    funny to say work on but that's what is necessary for me - I tend to worry about the future and mull too much on the past"

    OMG, me too! I mean just because I believe that staying in the moment is way to go, doesn't mean I don't struggle with it, because I do.

    Also with acceptance.

    "but I try, and trying is the journey I think."

    You said it....trying is the journey.

    These things will ALWAYS be a challenge for me. I still have pangs of worry and doubt creep in every once in a while.

    "and I make myself laugh, and try to make others laugh as well
    laughter is healing."

    And you DO, dear lady. You do. I agree...laughter is HEALING!

    I know you've been through a lot these past few year, and yet you always find the humor.

    (((( Dianne ))))

    I love you dear lady, you're a good soul.

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by and sharing on this post. Much loved and appreciated!

    X and hugs to you, Hope, and the kitties!

    ReplyDelete
  19. Good Morning Expat~

    Awwww...you always say the kindest things, buddy!

    THANK YOU!

    I too strain at the bindings to get to the next chapter, believe me. However, it helps me to share a post like this, so that I can re-remind myself of what I truly believe to be true. I have everything I need at the moment. And that my life is moving exactly as it should. And more importantly....I am blessed.

    Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing on this post, Expat. Always enjoyed. Always appreciated.

    You da' man!

    Have a wonderful weekend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  20. Good Morning Akelamalu~

    "When things are tight it's good to remember the Reiki Precepts isn't it Ron? In particular

    'I will be thankful for my many blessings'"

    OMG, you said it, m'dear! And Reiki has been one of my greatest blessings. It's always been that blanket of comfort when times are challenging. It's always given me the insight, when I am blind.

    YAAAAAAAAAAAAAY Reiki!!!!

    Thank you for stopping by, dear friend. And thank you for your loving and supportive words.

    ((( Akelamalu ))))

    Have a beautiful weekend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  21. Beautiful and insightful post my dear friend. Yes, I guess right now all we can do is stay the course and hope for the best and be thankful for what we have. I cherish your friendship.

    {{{Ron}}}

    Have a fantastic weekend.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Hello Peg~

    "Yes, I guess right now all we can do is stay the course and hope for the best and be thankful for what we have."

    Amen!

    And I cherish your friendship too, dear lady!

    {{{ Peg }}}

    Have a super weekend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  23. Right now the economy sucks. We must all be fortunate for the many blessing sin our lives. I hope you will be able to move where your heart leads you.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Sometimes I click into your world and am completely surprised in so many ways. And today is not different. Your message gives me pause to reflect and humbly acknowledge, with pure gratitude, the many many blessings in my life.

    And I couldn't agree with you more: "what I presently have is exactly all I need at the moment."

    Thank you my bloggy friend. xoxo

    ReplyDelete
  25. Hiya SuziCate~

    "We must all be fortunate for the many blessings in our lives."

    You said it, my friend! And I know from previous posts you've shared that you DO.

    (((( Suzi ))))

    "I hope you will be able to move where your heart leads you."

    One of these days I'll be back in NYC (where my heart is) when the timing is right, I just know it.

    Thank you for stopping by today! Always appreciated and enjoyed.

    Have a great weekend, dear lady!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  26. Hello Diane~

    Thank you so much for your sweet words, dear lady!

    I never know what I'm going to share on this blog. Today it was more reflective.

    I know through your own blog that you are someone who truly notices all the wonderful blessings in your life. It's always so evident in your words. I'm always touched by your posts.

    So, thank YOU my blogging friend!

    Have a beautiful weekend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  27. What a beautiful post, Ron. So well said. I agree that everyone seems so angry as of late from all their personal stresses.

    We have codes at the hospital for different medical emergencies. I had never heard Code Violet called before (it's a mental health emergency, meaning someone is out of control). I hear it at least 2-3 times a week now. Very sad.

    I'm trying to regroup while still accepting the present as well. Yes, quite a challenge but you take comfort knowing that you aren't the only one.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Hiya Chrissy~

    Thank you for your sweet and supportive comment, my friend!

    Yes, it's comforting to know that many people are going through much of the same thing; giving each other support. I feel sooo blessed in having just the basics right now, because I know that so many others are struggling with even that.

    But, I have great faith that things will turn around for everyone.

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, girl! Always enjoyed and appreciated.

    Hope you, Miss Bern, and Vinny are having a FAB weekend. OMG, isn't the weather GORGEOUS???

    X

    ReplyDelete
  29. I am glad to click into your blog. Such honest and beautiful post you have written here. Such a wonderful blog! Happy belated 55th birthday! Simply love your intro too!
    Thanks for reminding me about faith. May the force be with you too and have a fruitful week ahead! Stay cheerful always! Cheers!

    ReplyDelete
  30. Greetings Lion Girl~

    Welcome! Thank you so much for stopping by and for your sweet and supportive comment, and birthday wish. It's a pleasure to meet you!

    "May the force be with you...."

    OMG, that is so funny because that's a saying I say all the time!!!

    May the force be with you!

    Please stop by anytime, you're always welcomed here!

    Enjoy your weekend!

    Cheers!
    X

    ReplyDelete
  31. Great piece! It usually takes a few hard times to make us reflect on things; when life is going well, not many people stop to really think hard about things.

    Enjoy your weekend as well!!

    ReplyDelete
  32. Hi Dr. Cynicism~

    I was just getting ready to stop over to your blog, when I saw your comment here!

    "when life is going well, not many people stop to really think hard about things."

    You said it, buddy! And you are sooooooooooo right. It often takes hard times to make us reflect.

    Thanks for stopping by and sharing on this post. Much enjoyed and appreciated!

    Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

    x

    ReplyDelete
  33. well its interesting that i came over here tonight. literally, one hour ago i was crying uncontrollably on my floor.

    sometimes, its like life comes at you from all sides. for the past three years it was money/job stuff, now it's just everything.

    i've come to a spot where i feel like i've messed up my life beyond repair - relationally, that is. I know that isn't true, but i feel pretty hopeless right now.

    and funny you mention perception, since the magazine that i'm now working for that launches this winter, is called Perception ;)

    ReplyDelete
  34. To me there is something utterly beautiful and dignified, even royal, in being contented with what we already have today, right here, right now. It is as if ever things did get better, we'd embrace them with a readily thankful heart.

    Now this said, I desire to add that I know it is not always easy to count your blessings, or believe in something unseen. Yet this might very well be one of the biggest reasons of why we are living and learning to live, daily, here on earth.

    Dear sweet blog friend Ron, I wanted to let you know that I added you on my links under "friends". I should have thought about it even sooner!

    ReplyDelete
  35. You have no idea how much I needed to read this post right now. THANK YOU. Everything you say is so true and written so eloquently. I, too, have been wanting big changes in my life. I'd love to move, to change careers (to what, I have no idea), to do something different with my life. But I know this isn't the right time. Instead, it's a time for reflection so that I can make the right choices when the time comes, and in the meantime -- so important! -- to appreciate what I have, which is a lot.

    Thank you for writing this.

    ReplyDelete
  36. Good Morning Blunt~

    "literally, one hour ago i was crying uncontrollably on my floor."

    Yeah, I've done that myself at times. About seven years ago, I went through a VERY challenging time in my life where EVERYTHING seemed to be coming at me from all sides. Honestly, I felt hopeless too, like things would never improve. My life was literally falling apart. However, things eventually turned around. It was at that time I began to see that my life hadn't really fallen apart, but actually reformed into something new.

    It's the "in between stage" of moving from what "was", to what "is", that's the challenging part. That feeling of "uncertainty" - the feeling of thinking that we "messed up" our lives. But remember something, everything happens for a reason. There is a bigger picture that we sometimes don't see at first.

    This when I learned how to live in moment and notice what I already have; knowing that things are working out as they should.

    I know we haven't known each other for a long time, but from the moment I found your blog I could sense (from your energy) that you are a talented, gifted, and remarkable young lady. And I REALLY mean that! So, sit tight, my friend...and know that your life is PERFECT just the way it is right now. And that the Universe is simply setting the stage, for the next stage of your life!

    Hey, that magazine Perception sounds faaaaaaaabulous! PLEASE keep me posted, because I would love to read it!

    Thank you for stopping by and sharing on this post, girl! You've added much!

    Enjoy your Sunday!

    (((( Blunt ))))

    X

    ReplyDelete
  37. Bonjour Susu~

    THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! for adding your awesome insight to this post!

    And I couldn't agree with you more....

    "it is not always easy to count your blessings, or believe in something unseen. Yet this might very well be one of the biggest reasons of why we are living and learning to live, daily, here on earth."

    BRAVA!

    "To me there is something utterly beautiful and dignified, even royal, in being contented with what we already have today, right here, right now. It is as if ever things did get better, we'd embrace them with a readily thankful heart."

    Yes, I've witnessed people who have had to struggle with even the basics in life, be grateful for even the smallest things in their life. And you're right...it was utterly beautiful, dignified, and even royal.

    Thank you so much for stopping by and adding your enlightenment to this post, beautiful lady! Much appreciated!

    Have a wonderful Sunday!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  38. Good Morning JD~

    You are so welcome, girl! I needed to share this so I could hear myself say it, so I would remember it myself.

    So, thank YOU!

    "I'd love to move, to change careers (to what, I have no idea), to do something different with my life. But I know this isn't the right time. Instead, it's a time for reflection so that I can make the right choices when the time comes, and in the meantime-- so important! -- to appreciate what I have, which is a lot."

    Yes, timing is the thing. It ain't always easy to live in the moment, I know, but past experiences have taught me that it's all working out as it should. And in the meantime, to appreciate what I have, which is a lot.

    Thank soooooooo much for stopping by and sharing your insight on this post. It's always so appreciated and enjoyed.

    ((((( JD ))))))

    Have a FABU Sunday!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  39. Hang in there, Ron. It's true, life seems to have an ebb and a flow, and sometimes, it seems to be going in a direction that we may not always like. And when that happens, I keep telling myself, "I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be right now," and though I don't always believe it, that phrase keeps my feet firmly planted in the present moment.

    ReplyDelete
  40. Amen Ron, Sometimes we really want to make a change but making that change is so far out of reach, we fight so hard to get somewhere and end up miserable because of what we went through to get there only to be miserable with the change.

    Not that making changes are a bad thing but as you said we have to be happy with the simple things and enjoy what we have right now because in the great scheme of things we are exactly where we are supposed to be right now.

    Great Post Buddy.

    ReplyDelete
  41. Hi Gal From Brooklyn~

    Always so wonderful to see ya, dear lady!

    What you said is sooooooooo true....

    "And when that happens, I keep telling myself, "I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be right now," and though I don't always believe it, that phrase keeps my feet firmly planted in the present moment."

    Amen!

    Thanks so much for stopping by and for adding your words of wisdom to this post! Much appreciated and enjoyed!

    Hope you're having a TERRIFIC Sunday! Isn't the weather gorgeous here in the northeast this weekend? PERFECTO!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  42. Howdy Jimmy~

    What you shared here is soooooooooo true.....

    "we fight so hard to get somewhere and end up miserable because of what we went through to get there only to be miserable with the change."

    Exactly, because that's happened to me quite often throughout my life. Which is why I've come to the conclusion that I don't always know what's best for me. My mind might be thinking one thing, but in the bigger picture, something else is being created that I have never thought of or imagined. Perhaps something even better.

    So live in the moment and be grateful for was is. Right now.

    Thanks a BUNCH for stopping by and sharing your insight to this post, bud! MUCH appreciated.

    Hope you and Cindy are having a fantabulous Sunday!

    X to you both!

    ReplyDelete
  43. You and I, sir, are on the same wavelength. Unfortunately for us responsible individuals we have to deal with the cards we are dealt. Having a steady and well-paying job is important for providing for family and self, and that can never be taken for granted.

    I think getting away from it all is important to cleanse the mind and soul, and that's what vacations and sick time are for ;-) Working on your dreams in the background is the perfect way to go. Once you've laid the groundwork you can then transition on to a new path in life.

    But then again, I tend to be more responsible than I need to be, and in the end everyone marches to the beat of their own drummer...

    ReplyDelete
  44. Howdy Herman~

    It's soooooo great to see ya, my friend!

    Yes sir, I too tend to be responsible and never take for granted my well-paying job. And right now (with the economy) it's even more of a blessing to even HAVE a job.

    I think you're right...getting away from it all IS important to cleanse the mind and soul, and I plan on taking a retreat in January when I have a month off. I'm really gonna need it after the Christmas retail season.

    "Working on your dreams in the background is the perfect way to go. Once you've laid the groundwork you can then transition on to a new path in life."

    Bravo! I agree!

    Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your imput and enlightenment on this post, buddy! You've given "good stuff" to think about!

    I hope all went well with Tylers christening. I was thinking about you guys all weekend!

    X to you and your family!

    ReplyDelete
  45. Hiya Ron,

    I am with you 150% on this one.. In fact, when I read it.. I said, "Hmmm, this relates directly to me," and I think you hit a universal theme- it relates to ALL of US.. we're all in it together- through the ups and downs of life's roller coaster ride. I tend to be more on the optimistic side of things but life just throws the punches at you before you can get up from the last one.. Even so...
    I think that our lives here are in constant change and flux and we just kind of 'roll with the punches," so to speak...
    I read what both Barbara and Susa had to say, and gosh, those gals are so spot-on!
    I try to put my thoughts/faith in knowing that things will get better (eventually, right)? I think that finances/health/relationships are three major stress factors in life - though there are more, no doubt...
    And sometimes we feel as though we can't change something, and then POOF something changes for the better-- It's really hard to know when that will happen but just keeping in mind that it will get better, sometimes worse before better... and keeping the positive thoughts coming...
    I hope you get through all the rough spots, I agree with you on finances... it's really hard for so many people right now...
    Sending you hugs and hoping that things take a very positive turn-- like to NYC!! That would be FAB!!!
    Love and hugs,
    Leese

    ReplyDelete
  46. I've read this a few times now.
    There's nothing here that I didn't need to hear--
    I'll consider the message 'delivered'.
    And I'll try (TRY) to hang on to hope.
    Gets a bit tentative some moments--but I'm thinking that's all about me and my perspective/attitude.....

    ((((((((( Ron ))))))))))

    ReplyDelete
  47. Thank you for this post, Ron. I've been struggling with life for awhile now, reading this has given me sort of an anchor in a stormy sea. If I haven't told you lately, let me tell you now ~ I love you!

    ReplyDelete
  48. Bonjour Leesa~

    "it relates to ALL of US.. we're all in it together- through the ups and downs of life's roller coaster ride."

    Exactly, my friend! So many people I know are going through rough times right now, some more than others, so I feel amazingly grateful for having the basics right now, when others are struggling with even that.

    "I think that our lives here are in constant change and flux and we just kind of 'roll with the punches," so to speak..."

    That's it...roll with the punches. It's not always easy, but I've always found that if we can sit tight, count the blessings, and focus on all the GOOD, it ALWAYS works out.

    Always.

    "I hope you get through all the rough spots, I agree with you on finances... it's really hard for so many people right now..."

    Thank you! Things are actually okay with my finances right now, but this past summer was VERY challenging.

    "Sending you hugs and hoping that things take a very positive turn-- like to NYC!! That would be FAB!!!"

    Thank you. My heart will ALWAYS be in NYC, but in the meantime, I can visit.

    Much gratitude for stopping by and for ALL your wonderful postitive support and love.

    ((( Leesa )))

    Happy Monday!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  49. Good Morning Mel~

    I just wanna give you a BIG warm hug....

    (((((( Mel )))))))

    X ya, dear lady!

    And a Happy Monday to you!

    ReplyDelete
  50. Good Morning Nitebyrd~

    You're so welcome.

    So many people I know are struggling with various things right now, finances, jobs, life changes, decisions, etc. And I think it really helps us to read we are not alone, and that we're here for one another for support.

    And YOU, my friend....are plethora of support not only for me, but so many of us here. Your compassion and willingness to always reach out and help others is a freakin' inspiration!

    " If I haven't told you lately, let me tell you now ~ I love you!"

    Ditto, Sis!

    Have a fantabulous Monday!

    ((( You )))

    P.S. Did you get my email to thank you for your package? LOVED, LOVED, LOVED them!!!

    ReplyDelete
  51. Thank you, Ron, for this. Every one of the more spiritual people I have spoken to recently has said the exact same thing. The Universe is putting some pretty tough lessons out there to be learned. I have been going through this as well. Realizing that you have all that you need and to stop dwelling on what you "want" is key to happiness right now. I do hope you don't move before I get to Philly. Although, making it to NYC is not too difficult either.

    ReplyDelete
  52. Good Morning Jen~

    Yes, the Universe is putting some really tough lessons out there to be learned, and I think one of them is what you just shared....

    "Realizing that you have all that you need and to stop dwelling on what you "want" is key to happiness right now."

    I do feel(and have faith) that things will shift again throughout the world, like so many times before. However, the key (for me, anyway) is to stay focused on all the good things.

    God only knows when I will make my move back to NYC, so I may still be here in Philly when you visit the northeast. But, either way....it'll be so GREAT to finally meet you in person - yaaaaaaay!

    Thanks for stopping by and sharing on this post, Jen! Always enjoyed, always appreciated!

    Have a wonderful day!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  53. Oh Ron! I do hope ONE day you can move back to NYC.

    "I know that I have to accept and surrender to what is." Such a difficult thing to do sometimes, and yet the most freeing thing we can do!

    ReplyDelete
  54. Hello Meleah~

    ""I know that I have to accept and surrender to what is." Such a difficult thing to do sometimes, and yet the most freeing thing we can do!"

    You said it, girl...the most FREEING thing we can do!

    Yes, I have a feeling one day I WILL move back to NYC. And then you can come visit me!

    Thank you for stopping by, my friend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  55. Ron, you have spoken the words of the masses it would seem. I too have had moments of wanting and wishing something beyond the here and now. I think at this point in my life I try to live in today though. I do not know what the future holds, hope it is good, but know that there will be many a lesson to be learned yet. I feel blessed for the moments and lessons I have been given and the people that have been offered to me for my journey. I do wish it wouldn't always take so long to learn those insights, but it all comes in time.

    ReplyDelete
  56. Hello Katherine~

    Thank you so much for sharing such a beautiful and enlightening comment!

    " I think at this point in my life I try to live in today though. I do not know what the future holds, hope it is good, but know that there will be many a lesson to be learned yet."

    Agreed! And I think that's what I've enjoyed the most about aging, the ability to SEE things so differently than when I was younger.

    To live and appreciate the moment; knowing that things are working out as they should.

    " I do wish it wouldn't always take so long to learn those insights, but it all comes in time."

    Me too. But like you shared...it all comes in time.

    Have a beautiful weekend, dear lady!

    X

    ReplyDelete