Peace of mind or mind in pieces?

I don’t know about you, but the past 5 years have hardened me. I used to be positive, optimistic, radiating hope and love. I use to view the world in vibrant colors. Giving people the benefit of the doubt, believing each of us can and want to be good deep down. But gosh darn the world has been a dark place to find light in lately. Surrounded by Trumpsters, QAnon conspiracists, people who are dumb enough not to believe in COVID or selfish enough not to care. Racism, climate change, violence and devastation. It’s hard not be mad. Angry at the world, pissed off by the people we have to share it with. But life is too short to worry about what other people do. If I’ve learned anything about these people that boil my blood, it is that nothing I do will change them.


I made a vow. I vow to let the haters hate but not to be one of them. I will focus on the incredible humans I know and will meet. Trust in the power of love. Hold on to good hearts. Karma and fate will handle the rest. I want to be excited about life again. Not just my own journey, but the entirety of it all. Sharing the world with the people who have so much magic to offer. Uncovering new ideas, fresh outlooks, experiences and energy. Continuing to do what I can to make this world a better place and joining forces with those who want the same.


While I obviously can’t live my life avoiding the “bad” people, I can choose who and what I let in. My peace of mind over my mind in pieces. Sure, I’m still going to get pissed off at times. Rubbed the wrong way, see things I don’t agree with. But I have the choice to let those feelings live within me. I have new and strict limitations on the thoughts I let live in my mind. Collecting energy that feels good and letting bad juju bounce off those vibrations. The more I reject negativity, the more positivity consumes me. Back to bright and sparkly eyes. Happy thoughts and control over my own mood. Staying on track to spread joy and inspire greatness.


There is always a silver lining. A new way to rework a thought. It’s a little like a writing exercise. Take this angry sentence and change it to make a hopeful one. “These idiots who won’t get vaccinated are ruining it for all of us” can be transformed into “I’m so incredibly grateful to live in a country where vaccinations are abundant. I’m relieved my friends, family and I got vaccinated when we had the opportunity. Now we won’t get too sick if we end up getting COVID and we’re taking the steps to end this pandemic and protect those who are more susceptible.” I own my thoughts and take responsibility for them. With that responsibility comes the practice of keeping them kind.


The world is a beautiful place with all kinds of people, sights, and life. Exploring is my favorite activity. Just as I choose which places to explore, I choose which people and thoughts to explore. From here on out, I’m keeping my itinerary bright and beautiful. Navigating around dark areas and buckling in for the ride. Life is what we make of it, not what the people around us make of it.