I saw a book at Anthropologie (where else?) and thought "That sounds like a good book." I know now that I was more likely subconsciously thinking "I need to read this book." A week or so later I found the book in a bargain bin at Borders, and just the title spoke to me and I had to purchase it.
The book is 29 Gifts: How a Month of Giving Can Change Your Life by Cami Walker ( a native Nebraskan, I later found out). After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, Cami learns how to "live in abundance" by giving 29 gifts away in 29 days. They don't have to be material things, a good thought or kind word counts just as much.
I've read about 60 pages, and I've already found areas of my life that may be "lacking" a giving spirit. Part of the giving challenge is that you have to change your way of thinking. After a particularly rough day yesterday, I knew this book was just begging to be read. I often forget how lucky I am and focus on the negative. I called my mom and vented for probably too long about how it's hard to work two jobs and I'm frustrated when people miscommunicate and sometimes I don't feel appreciated for the things I do both at home and at work...blech. This book is really ringing true with me right now. So far, the most powerful thing I've taken from it is this quote:
"A wise mentor once told me to be mindful of the stories I tell over and over because they are indicative of the thought patterns and beliefs that limit me."
How many times have I said, to myself or to others, "Well, I'm a perfectionist and I often demand perfection from others, even though that isn't realistic." I can't TELL you how many times I've said that. Over and over and over. I'm thinking that this statement is indicative of a limiting thought pattern and belief. I'm not particularly sure of how to remedy it right now, but I'm guessing that recognizing it as such will help. I don't know if saying it helps me deal with things when they don't go according to plan, or to help me remember that everyone isn't perfect or what. I just know that I say it a lot.
You can learn more about Cami Walker and the 29 Gifts challenge at her website 29gifts.org. You can even commit to the 29 gifts challenge and give away your own gifts for 29 days. After poking around on her website, they also have a boutique with some of the proceeds going to the National MS Society. Some of my favorite items in the shop say "I am a gift" or "You are a gift". I really appreciate the reminder.
Take the time today to be grateful for what you have, both physically, mentally and spiritually. I know I'm thinking a lot more about what I can give to others instead of focusing on me. Happy Friday and have a great weekend!
Comments