Kindness: Serenity is a Choice

Day 25: Kindness: Serenity is a Choice

“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.” – Reinhold Nieburh

I found myself walking down the road of old, to a place that is not kind, loving or nurturing. Maybe you have walked there as well, it’s at the corner of Agitation and Disturbance. The day started well, I worked with a client and even squeezed in a swim (the pool is my happy place). At some point I made a wrong turn and was quickly headed away from Serenity Lane toward Control Avenue. As I headed down the dreaded avenue, I had a moment of clarity. I realized that I had the ability and the choice to turn around. I did not have to continue my way to that dark and lonely street corner, I could turn around and walk back to the sunny lane called Serenity. That is exactly what I did. I chose Serenity Lane and it is blissful.

1. Kindness to Self:

   Choosing serenity over old patterns and old ways may seem easier said than done, but today, I found it as simple as making the choice to turn around. I could suffer and feel agitated or I could go back to the feelings of this morning, when I felt inspired and rejuvenated. I chose serenity, I chose kindness to myself. What makes you feel serene? What can you do and choose, so that you find yourself on Serenity Lane?

2. Kindness to Others:

   I have been told that we can use the serenity prayer in regards to others. We can say: God, grant me the serenity to accept people for who they are, the courage to change myself and the wisdom to know the difference. It is not an easy task to accept people for who they are, but it surely is the kindest.

3. Kindness to Strangers:

   Accepting others, having the courage to be understanding of differences and the wisdom to be kind to everyone will surely bring a sense of serenity to your day and probably theirs as well.

4. Kindness to Our Planet:

   When it comes to our planet, we are surrounded with numerous opportunities to be in and visit beautiful and serene places. Please check out one of my favorite websites about weather and climate changes: NOAA. It is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website and if offers informative and often times alarming articles about our changing climate as well as very accurate weather. Keep abreast of our changing world and please share your favorite environmental websites with me.

Jennifer Palazzo

Photo Courtesy of FreeImages.com/AdamGoyette