My Remembering Rock

By Chris Trout | January 25, 2009

I have a beautiful little striated rock that has been sitting on my desk for years. I just like it. It looks like it has been around a long, long time and has been shaped by many experiences. Now I carry it with me wherever I go - whenever possible, right in the palm of my hand. Want to know why?

Perhaps like some of you, the economy is wreaking havoc on my livelihood. Frozen budgets, cancelled events and shifting priorities have taken an awful toll, both on my budget and my spirit. Until…

Until I remember this reality: What I give my attention to is what I will live. It's incredibly simple: If I focus on the fear, everything shuts down - my imagination, my energy and my ability to see anything that is not aligned with the fear. If I focus on my purpose (to share transformative ideas) and intention (to live joyfully, embracing and growing the abundance that is around me and is me), I am energized and see what is possible.

The first may satisfy that part of me that learned that I must "face facts," but robs me of the energy and flexibility to do so. The second activates my focus, stimulates ideas and spurs me to action. Ironic, isn't it?

So once again, I am left with the same question that confronts each of us in each moment: Will I do what works or what I have learned to do by watching those around me?

Carrying that rock in my hand may seem silly, but it works. It reminds me to focus on what I want - and to see the incredible beauty and opportunity that each new moment offers. I choose silly. I choose life. I choose joy.

You?