Monday, June 14, 2010

'Mental Vitamin Mondays': Abundance

"It's not about the abundance I can acquire in this life, but the abundance my life can bring to others. God, help me make this count." -AW

What exactly is abundance? Abundance is certainly not something we can acquire; it is something we tune into. It is a state of being. It is feeling that "I have enough"—time, energy, loving relationships, etc. Yes, even enough money. It is not convincing myself that I have enough, while, in fact, I don't. It is about actually having what I need and want. It is believing that I will always have enough.

Although abundance is not confined to prosperity, the majority of people who hear the word abundance automatically think money or fortune. This is understandable, because material wealth has become an all-consuming concern in today's society. But for many, money is the stumbling block in moving towards the higher things in life. I'm sure you've all heard the phrase "money can't buy you happiness". How many situations can you think of where the person was rich by society standards but was also miserable and unhappy. Putting money first means you have placed all of your happiness in money, in other words, your happiness is now based on how much material wealth you have. That is a pretty lonely and grievous investment of your happiness don't you think?

My father once said to me "The greatest things in life are not things, you never see a U-haul following a hearse." This has stayed with me as immense words of wisdom because it is so true. No matter what your beliefs are, we all understand that death is part of our future. And you cannot take your worldly goods to the grave. It is easy to get caught up in having the latest trends whether it be fashion, technology or whatever your interests may be - and the truth is it is OK to have nice things, it is perfectly acceptable to treat yourself to the "finer things in life" but it's when you make those things your main objective is when it is bad for your soul. When you become so focused on distractions (wealth and luxuries) you ultimately lose focus of what really matters. Positive relationships, spiritual wholeness, love...these are things that truly matter.

Focusing on what is already there in your life and not dwelling on what you don't have may sound like good old positive thinking, but it is an important principle. It relates to the Biblical promise: "Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance" (Matthew 13:12)

After identifying all the things that you do have, be grateful for them. Express gratitude. Live constantly in an attitude of gratitude. You will be amazed by how this positive perspective towards your life will create positive results. I hope you all enjoy an abundawonderful life! :)


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