Surrender equals Gratitude

On my last show I interviewed Duncan Bridgeman the co-creator of the new film 'What about me?'. This film, which took five years to make, explores the common thread mankind has regardless of the geography or social circumstances of the individual. Interwoven with unique music it is truly a magnificient experience.
I asked Duncan what he had learned from this epic project. He responded with the simple word, "surrender."
To surrender yourself to what the Universe is delivering at any given time. He now sees anyone coming into his life as a gift to be appreciated no matter under what circumstances. The little and big frustrations in his life don't phase him anymore and he is more at peace with himself. This came to him through his encounters with locals in some of the most impovished areas of the world. Although they had little or nothing in the way of possessions, invariably they were happy and welcoming.
They don't carry the baggage, we in the Western world seem to accumulate.
How often do we fight against the tide of events in our lives?
Too often reacting negatively out of instinct instead of letting the trivial wash away or opening our hearts to better cope with the bigger 'challenges'.
To surrender doesn't mean to become subservient but to take control.
Control of who you are.

By focussing on things we can't change or positively influence we close our eyes and minds the beauty and wonder that surrounds us. It is often the small incidents; being cut off in traffic, waiting in a queue, a perceived insult, bad service, bad weather or whatever our overworked subconcious creates that has us overlook the other 'small' things in our life. The wonders of Nature, the smile from a stranger, love of a pet, a word of encouragement or the gift of friendship.
To embrace all these gifts with a sense of Gratitude will help heal the wounds, both mental and physical, that may have been inflicted on you.
Sadly too many in the modernised society rely on 'things' for fulfilment instead of living a life where they are true to themselves which will deliver all the gifts the Universe has to offer.

Each day take the time to do a stocktake on all the things you should be grateful for.
Make a habit of looking for a positive in any situation. Ask yourself "what is the lesson from this?"
The arrows may still come your way but as you evolve into a place of surrender and gratitude, you will the magnet the repels the negative and attracts the positive.

The Power of Inspiration

We have witnessed massive positive reaction around the world to the election of Barack Obama to the Presidency of the USA.
During his campaign many commentators asked what are his policies and agendas. All his talk was just rhetoric.
Whilst he may not have articulated policies, via his words he deliverd hope. Hope for the future.
The power of his message resonated with people from all walks and life and across the world.
There are times where we need someone to stand up and lead. Not by only by deeds but by words. Words that we can absorb and use to feed our soul and heart.
For when we are inspired, often the way forward is revealed by our own thinking. New ideas spring forward and calls to action are created.
Having excitement and passion for an idea or dream will energise not only you but those you choose to share with.
History has shown great leaders to be great orators. Their words lifted spirits, engergised minds, filled hearts and empowered people to act.
There are times when we need great speeches to lift us up and inspire confidence that there is a future worth embracing.
Whether it is the nation, the workplace or the family, inspirational messages are the spark that ignite postiive actions and change for the better.