The Rhythm of Life; What Are You Waiting For?

"The Rhythm of Life," by Matthew Kelly in my opinion embodies the concept and the mission of a Total Soulful Journey, which is to AWAKEN, INSPIRE AND EMPOWER YOU TO BECOME THE BEST VERSION OF YOURSELF. This is one of the most powerful books that I have read. Although the author's answers to life’s mysteries seem obvious at times, we can all relate to them. The book begins by stating that life is a series of choices. Choices in the food we consume, in love, in fear, in anger, in what we wear, where we live... Every choice we make either leads us closer to our destiny or draws us back from our goals. But, what are your goals and what is your life’s mission? Many do not know, and that is OK, but we must always dream really really big, because as Matthew Kelly says, “Dreams foster hope, and hope is one of the forces by which men and women live.” Each choice we make designs the tapestry of our life.

We were all born with special gifts or talents, and with a purpose. Some people find their purpose early in life and for many it takes years and years. What is your story? When I first started working with Avon, leading yoga and meditation at corporate events, they explained that they believe everyone has a story. Matthew Kelly repeats that same sentiment because it is true. You are the author and the architect of your life. If you do not like the direction your story is going, make different choices, write a new chapter, add or delete characters, and yell plot twist! Matthew Kelly says with conviction, “For the day we accept that we have chosen to choose our choices is the day we cast off the shackles of victimhood and are free to pursue the lives we were born to live.” Take a minute and reread that quote. Then pause and reflect.

Do you know what you want in life? Do you know your purpose? Our true purpose in the deepest sense is to become the best version of ourselves. We cannot do this by “supersizing” meals, by giving up when the going gets tough, or by walking away from meaningful relationships when there is a bump in the road. In this book Matthew Kelly explains accurately that "there are four aspects to the human person: physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual.” When the needs of all four aspects are met we are whole and therefore happy. The key is to recharge your batteries so to speak by living with purpose. Do what matters to you, give to others, devote time to your spirituality and let your actions be fueled by your purpose.

Why do we start projects that we do not finish? The books explains that “there is a crisis of committment in our society.” We fail to commit to our marriages (according to the American Psychological Association 50%, so one of every two marriages end in divorce), our jobs, and ultimately to commit to ourselves because our vision is unclear when it comes to what our dreams truly are. Without a clear vision we are unable to make choices each day that lead us on the path toward our big goals. Draw a hypothetical map of where you want to go in life. Visualize yourself accomplishing your dreams. Feel yourself there rather than worrying about how to get there. Now, imagine which roads will get you there faster and listen to the voice within, your intuition.

“For the most part, we are too busy doing just about everything that means just about nothing, to just about nobody, just about anywhere. . . and it will mean even less to anyone a hundred years from now! ”

— Matthew Kelly

We walk a fine line between our need for challenges in our lives and our need to remain safe. Staying safe leads to stagnation, while welcoming the challenges that life offers leads to our personal growth. Live passionately and pursue the things that set your soul on fire. We were not born to merely survive, but to thrive. We have legitimate needs to satisfy all four aspects of our life including connection with others, the need to be fully accepted, the need for intimacy, the need for answers (all of which are already within us), and the need to be heard and understood rather than “fixed."

Take time to slow down and find silence. Just as the body needs periods of rest to recharge and repair, the mind requires silence for clarity to emerge. Mindfulness and meditation will help you to find your purpose and to visualize your dreams.

Five Rules for Obtaining the Life of Your Dreams:

Set reasonable goals, some small and some big.
Be disciplined.
Let purpose drive your actions.
Fill yourself with gratitude and give thanks multiple times daily.
Visualize your goals and yourself accomplishing those goals.

Personal development should be a priority in your life. We must stop glamorizing the overly busy world. Our health, which includes all four aspects that I spoke of earlier, is our wealth. As Matthew Kelly says, “the greatest barrier to loving people, to cherishing people, and to accepting people is our inability to see ourselves in them. Take a closer look. We are one.” The sooner you can recognize your oneness with the universe, the sooner you will obtain your goals and dreams and watch the stress and anxiety fade away. Again, I repeat, you were not born to merely survive, you were born to THRIVE! Live the life of love and happiness that you deserve. Give love, be loved, be LOVE.

Blessings,

Libby

P.S. - This is an online book club. We would love to hear your thoughts and questions about "The Rhythm of Life." Tell us your favorite parts and how they relate to your life. Also let us know if you have any requests or suggestions for our upcoming books.

Coming up on the blog for Tuesday, Paul will have a very informative post for you called, "The Power of Belief." From our health, to our finances, to our relationships, what we THINK becomes our reality. You won't want to miss this thought provoking article!.

Awaken • Inspire • Empower

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