Move Over, Comfort Zone

I know from past experience that when you find yourself living in the Comfort Zone, watch out! It probably isn't going to last much longer.

After all, life on Planet Earth is really a game with challenges, and without challenges, the experience would be dull. Without those bumps in the road we all have experienced from time to time, we would not grow. Facing each problem that comes along is a test of our skill to manage living.

Right now I presume that I am in one of those comfort zones. I have much to be thankful for, my three sons living close to me again, a partner with whom I feel I want to spend the rest of my life, a part-time job that is giving me satisfaction along with financial comfort and camaraderie with others, plus I'm blessed with good health and the ability to do the things I cherish.

In the past I've usually found that these periods in life that go smoothly come to an end when you least expect it. When a bad thing happens to spoil it, we react ... in fear, in anger, in confusion, and sometimes we lash out at others, claiming it is their fault. But whose fault is it really? Maybe it's no one's fault.

You've heard the expression, "Sh-- happens." Okay ... it's part of life. What can you do about it? Usually not much. You either fight it, which often makes things worse, or you accept it for what it is and cope the best you can. If you are by nature a vindictive person, you'll try to get even with Life. But 99 times out of 100, you're going to be fighting a losing battle.

This isn't to say you should go bury your head in the sand and completely ignore whatever it is that is causing the disruption. You need to face it and deal with it, and if that involves some kind of remedy or battle, and you can do something about it to make the situation better, it is in your best interest to go for it. But if it's something you have absolutely no control over, even if you had all the money and power in the world to control it, it's best to just go on living your life and focusing on the things that bring you joy and satisfaction instead of anger and ensuing dis-ease (which, by the way, can shorten your lifespan).

I'm sailing along right now and enjoying the ride. That's not to say that tomorrow will be more of the same. I find it is best to use caution and know ahead of time that things will change. By keeping an open mind and a positive perspective, even in sultry times, you will be a happier person and those bumps in the road will just be that ... bumps.

If you are out of your comfort zone right now, just know that eventually things will get better with the right attitude and showing kindness to others. If you're in the comfort zone, like I am, just enjoy the ride and don't worry so much about what might be around the corner. Keep an attitude of gratitude.