SJT Virtue

This month, the Spiritual Journey Thursday community is exploring the topic of virtue as suggested by our host, Karen Eastlund. When Karen posed this topic she added a long list of virtues, positive behaviors illustrating high moral standards that are important for well-being. Upon reviewing the list of virtues, I paused to reflect on how I could incorporate more virtues, character traits, into my life. I am eager to follow my one word, begin, on a new spiritual pathway.  

Virtue begins in the heart and in the mind. It is nurtured in the home. - Elaine S. Dalton

• Beginning a New Spiritual Journey
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• If I accept what is and
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• let go of worries and expectations,
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• contentment and joy may flow more freely.
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• If I add the power of forgiveness,
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• deeper compassion for others,
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• and a flowing gift of kindness
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• will I establish
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• a truly humble heart?
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• If so, patience will need
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• to step forward so
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• balance can be achieved.
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• Hope could fly across
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• the new path to serenity
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• where gratitude
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• will govern each day.
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• Then, I shall be blessed
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• with the grace  of
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• living life to its fullest intent.

• A thankful heart is the greatest virtue. - Cicero

The steps on the spiritual journey leading to a virtuous life are many. It is my goal to slowly and mindfully develop essential virtues to better navigate life. I am grateful for this month's reflective topic and the opportunity to create a new pathway to happiness!

Looking Back to Look Forward

It's summer, my yearly mid-point check to self-reflect by looking back on the first half of the year in order to move forward. Six months ago, I carefully chose my one word, hope, to be my faithful guide on my life journey. The goal for the year is to become a more mindful person who fully savors "life living" moments and not just races through life. 

How did I do so far?
✓ I am learning to take time to notice and wonder more. 
✓ I am leaning on my word hope to get me through the challenging moments.
✓ I am learning that calm has a more lasting effect than speed. Yoga helps me to be in the moment and calm down from any outside forces.

What do I need to do?
✓ Take my on the mat yoga practice to my off the mat life.
✓ Let go of the little annoyances in life to remain happy.
✓ Read scripture more often to be guided toward peace.

In quietness and in confidence shall be your strength. - Isaiah 30:15

Hope floated in this year.

 

Where have I found hope?

✓ In quiet moments where I can see the ordinary transform itself into a thing of beauty

✓ In my gardens where nature transformed the landscape this spring into summer

 created with FotoJet.com

✓ In my grandbaby's smile 

Commitment for the 2nd Half of 2018:
✓ I look forward to continuing my journey of self-reflection, discovery, and transformational change.

Today is Spiritual Journey first Thursday. Doraine Bennett is hosting the link-up this month at her blog site, Dori Reads. This month's topic is "Looking Back/Looking Forward Here at the Middle of the Year." In closing, Doraine writes, "Give thanks and reaffirm your commitment to continue." That I shall do.