Tag: taking for granted

Looking Through the Eyes of a Martian

by Mershon Niesner

People from a planet without flowers would think we must be mad with joy the whole time to have such things about us. Iris Murdock, author

Here in the United States, it’s nearly summer and flowers are starting to bloom. Those first buds are the best, especially if the winter and spring were long and difficult. With so much flooding and tornados around the country, a sunny summer day filled with flowers will be a welcome relief.

I love imagining, as Murdock did, what flowers would look like from the viewpoint of a Martian. My guess is, they would be wondrous beyond words. Take a moment today to look outside and see your world with Martian eyes. See all that is blooming and have a sense of wonder beyond words.

Affirmation: I see my world with new eyes.

Coaching questions: What are you taking for granted in your life? What wonders of nature do you appreciate the most? What helps you stay in wonder mode? 

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Heading to the Beach

by Mershon Niesner

The more often we see the things around us–even the beautiful and wonderful things–the more they become invisible to us. That is why we often take for granted the beauty of this world: the flowers, the trees, the birds, the clouds–even those we love. Because we see things so often, we see them less and less. Joseph B. Wirthlin, American businessman, church leader

I’m determined to NOT fall into Mr. Wirthlin’s quote…I’m determined NOT to take the flowers, the trees, the birds, the clouds and especially those I love for granted. When we moved to beautiful Marco Island, I was determined NOT to take one of the country’s most beautiful beaches for granted. Crescent Beach is breath-taking. I literally shed a tear when I first catch site of its vast crescent beauty. But, it’s been weeks and weeks since I’ve been there. Mr. Wirthlin is winning and today I’m fighting back. I’m up early, before the heat of the day, so I can walk the beach. I will NOT take the beauty around me for granted…much less the people in my life!

So often we have regrets regarding the loss of those we love. We mostly regret taking them for granted. We regret the infrequent visits, the harsh words, or the lack of caring. Beware of falling into Mr. Wirthlin’s quote.

Affirmation: I pay attention to the beauty and people around me.

Coaching questions: What/who are you taking for granted? What can you do to change your behavior?