The Color of Perception

Are we troubled or unhappy because of the things that happen in our lives, or because of our our perception about the things that happen in our lives?  

Some of us find it difficult to be happy. Maybe we've sold out on our dreams, we've followed the rules, we've played it safe, we did what we were told, and we worked hard - yet things didn't work out as we planned.  Has this ever happened to you?  We may look at others who are successful, who haven't followed the rules, who got what we wanted and we declare life isn't fair.  

If even one person can accomplish something; if even one person can remain joyful in the midst of a challenge; if even one person can overcome fear, then we all can.  Maybe the difference is simply a matter of perception.  We don't need to be like the comic strip character Ziggy when he is coming around a corner. Heading toward that corner is a man carrying a sign that says, "Happiness is just around the corner."  Ziggy said, "Gee, I must have missed it."

We don't need to miss out on happiness, joy, gratitude, or peace. How are we spending our days? How much are we able to see the delight and blessings in our day-to-day routine?  And how often do we get distracted because we see what other people are doing or getting and get frustrated, envious, or dissatisfied?  When we're feeling that way, we've lost all touch with our own Divine nature and we've lost touch with the idea that God is Good, all the time:  24/7/365. 

Part of the problem is we have learned our perception patterns from others.  We have learned how to be overly critical; we have learned to feel guilty and “less than” because we’ve made mistakes.  Then Monkey Mind chimes in and says, “This is terrible! I call myself an evolving spiritual being, and yet I do things like this. I certainly hope nobody ever finds out about it!” 

We've all made mistakes.  That is part of being human.

The important thing is our perception regarding the mistake.  

We could own up to it and remember God is everywhere present or we could pretend to be spiritually superior and snub our noses at those who have admitted to making mistakes and try and make sure no one finds out about the mistakes we've made. 

The gift has been given and the Presence of the Divine is with us always.  It is up to us to respond and what an invitation that is!  We can RSVP and step into a greater awareness of all that Life has to offer regardless of our our circumstances.  And that will help move us into our infinite possibilities.