Attitude of Gratitude
Life has its twists and turns, most of which are fodder for fiction.
Sister Thérèse, an attractive, thoughtful, sincere and brilliant past colleague, who has since married, guided me to be a man of gratitude. It is all about attitude and embracing life.
My personality is one that always walked to the beat of my own drum. Though it took me years to discover and understand the following: it is impossible to be a unique individual, following dreams and aspirations, while conforming to authoritative dictates that fluctuate according to whim! At times, Church leaders made whimsical decision that had and continue to have disregard for the individual. In my own life, I experienced fickle rules and regulations that were not only oppressive and impossible to fulfill (as a human being), but helped develop neurotic tendencies. I’m still getting over the symptoms!
Idealism is usually the trademark of the young. However, in the scheme of Catholicism, I was captivated by eastern spirituality, which beckoned my heart and mind. My early rigid existence was drawn to an alternative way of life that required being present in the moment, charity particularly when it is most difficult, and making informed decisions even when the majority disagreed. Certainly, the cognitive dissidence between the drive for perfection or being a beautifully flawed and responsible human being ripped apart my ideal world and made it delightfully habitable. So, here I am, overcoming dysfunction all the while desiring to give—more than receive.
I have discovered the necessary tools, which have enabled me to walk through my personal life-labyrinth; heart-felt sincerity, service and humility require confidence, a sense of self-worth and self-respect. In hindsight, once I began to understand these principles, I was able to celebrate life regardless of the politics, authoritative abuses and evil. Though it has taken awhile, I am allowing myself the freedom to have fun and be silly with friends, while being effective in making healthy changes in the world around me.
Reflecting upon my personal history, I am grateful for my life’s circumstances—the good, the bad and the ugly, for they have prepared me to be the man who walks in my sandals. The universe has collaborated to make my dreams come true. Now I want to help others’ resurface their dreams, while offering the tools of hope through education.
