For years I’ve lived my life with the help of Louise Hay’s “I Can Do It” calendar.
Reading the saying of the day early in the morning gives me courage to go on living well. And one recent saying really has stuck with me.
“At the end of each day, I am aware that I will never live this particular day again. I am grateful to be alive.”
Of course, I’m always grateful to be alive! Isn’t everyone?
But I would change the saying slightly. Instead of “At the end of each day,” I would say, “At the beginning of each day, I am aware that I will never live this particular day again.”
Life is so fragile and so short. We can’t afford to waste this particular day, no matter which day it is. We always should be aware of that fact at the start of the day.
This particular day has to be the best it can possibly be!
But what makes for a good day, anyway? What are the elements that make it excellent?
Meaningful work is important to everyone. Without work, life is flat and purposeless. If you’re retired, why not volunteer? Serve in your local homeless shelter or economy shop.
Do what you do best–follow your talents. Write your life story–your family will appreciate it! Or begin that novel you’ve always wanted to author. Make a quilt or crochet an afghan. Or bake a chocolate cake.
If you love being outside, plant a fall garden. Or if you’re handy with tools, build a little table for your grandchild.
Spending time with other people, as well as by yourself, is critical. Choose your friends wisely. Upbeat people with varied interests will enrich your life and make you happier and healthier.
On the other hand, it’s up to you to become the kind of person that other people want to spend time with.
Enjoying nature will brighten your day. Go out in the morning. Pick a tomato for breakfast or talk a walk. You’ll feel better all day.
That walk will get you moving. And movement will give you more energy and better health.
In addition to walking, why not dance, play tennis, or croquet? Or go to your local health centre and work out. If you aren’t up to the treadmill, try the stationary bike.
Or better yet, try the NuStep Recumbent Trainer—a bicycle that has all the benefits of walking but is easy on your knees.
Finally, make sure that every day includes some entertainment. Play Rook with your friends. Or Bridge, Pinochle, or Scrabble. It’s your choice. Meet a new friend for coffee.
And always remember, any day without laughter is a wasted day!
Best of all, kill five birds with one stone–go with your friend on a nature walk. Friends, nature, exercise, fun, and laughter. How’s that for efficiency!
Enjoy this particular day and don’t forget you will never live it again. Make it a good one!
Marie Snider is an award-winning writer and syndicated columnist. Write her at thisside60@cox.net
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