Lately I have been feeling overwhelmed. For those who know me well, this is not a new feeling, as I, more often than not, feel overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious. To cope, I have been trying to be more disciplined about doing things that are relaxing and really being where I am, in that moment. It is hard. Last week someone asked me a question that I have been earnestly trying to focus on since then.
Ask yourself:
When I am 80 years old, will I wish that I did MORE or LESS of this?
I have been so challenged and encouraged by this question the past week. It has radically changed the way I think, and slowly changing the way I function day to day, moment to moment. When I get consumed with my to-do list, I ask myself that question. When I am 80 years old, will I wish that I got more things checked off my to-do list, or will I wish that I spent more intentional time with my son?
The answer is obvious.
This painting came at a time when I was over-thinking the world again. I was overwhelmed and caught up in what "needed" to be done. So instead of feeling overwhelmed and stressed, I chose to paint. I chose to relax. I chose to be content in the moment. I chose to take care of myself. I chose to believe that I would not always feel overwhelmed, stressed, and anxious. I chose to believe that I am okay, just the way I am. I chose hope, and I am trying to choose it everyday since.
Embrace yourself today, just the way you are.
Choose hope. Choose life.
Hope more.
"We are all lying in the gutter, but some of us are gazing at the stars." -Oscar Wilde
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