Don't hit the rocks

Experiencing some anxiety over various things, my dad offered me some good advice. As always, it was in the form of an analogy. #classic

He referenced life [the situations] as riding a bicycle and riding along a course that is rocky. You will always go where your eyes are focused, even if it's not where you want to be. If you look at the rocks, you'll hit the rocks. If you don't want to hit the rocks on the trail, look ahead on the trail for the path, not at the rocks. Look up and outside yourself. Only here can you flourish and find the right path.


Thinking about it throughout the day, I expanded on the analogy myself. (I am my father's daughter). Sometimes you need to shift the gears of your bike. This could be interpreted in a multitude of ways. Right now, with my case, I looked at it as shifting my attitude. Shifting my attitude from one of anxiousness, worry and negativity to one of strength, courage and positivity. Focus on finding the smooth path through for myself. Change my attitude but remain natural. 

O God of truth, grant me the happiness of heaven 

so that my joy may be full in accord with your promise. 

In the meantime let my mind dwell on that happiness, 

my tongue speak of it, my heart pine for it, 

my mouth pronounce it, my soul hunger for it, 

my flesh thirst for it, and my entire being desire it 

until I enter through death in the joy of my Lord forever. 

Amen.

Saint Augustine of Hippo