Thoughts on Control ...

Today is a beautiful day in Southern Florida. Glorious! The sun is shining and the skies are free of clouds.

I've been pondering the fact that I have no control over anyone else's thoughts, feelings, actions, or reactions ... ever. It is my reaction to what someone else says or does that is ultimately MY choice. I am responsible for and have control over only my thoughts, words, emotions, or deeds.

It's a simple concept to logically understand, but it is not a very easy one to stay aware of all day long ~ at least it isn't for me! It's very interesting how others can poignantly point out all the flaws in you, without even realizing that they share the same exact so-called flaws. It's as if they are looking in a mirror. That's not just a load of malarchy now, is it? We really DO see in others what we see in ourselves! And we like and dislike in others what we like and dislike in ourselves.

Today I think I'll try to stay aware of the fact that it is MY choice to react to the words and actions of people. It's my choice to percieve that someone has wronged me. It's my choice to allow chaotic or unnecessary emotions into my personal space. It's my choice to get caught up in drama that really isn't any of my business!

Today, instead of thinking, "He made me feel angry!" or "She made me feel sad" I will realize that absolutely no one can MAKE me feel anything. It is MY CHOICE to react to the words, actions, or thoughts of others. It is my choice, and mine alone, to feel a feeling or to allow someone's action or inaction to affect me personally. I have control over ONLY my own actions, reactions, emotions, and thoughts. Today I will try to stay aware of this fact. I will remain aware that I am ultimately 100% responsible for the way I choose to feel at any given moment!

Namasté, my friends ...