Webster.com has the described word “intent”, definition 1. b: the state of mind with which an act is done. This word has been heavily running many laps around my mind in the most recent weeks. Everything we say or do has some goal, a purpose behind it whether we distinctly recognize it at the time or not. Those intentions are either in favor of ourselves, or others, to whom the intent is directed or obviously, the alternative, which is some disagreeable thought or direction. Forgive my poor example here, but it was the first thing to enter my mind! Something, what may seem trivial, as telling a friend that her dress is a little too short. Why was it necessary for me to tell her that I perceived her dress to not be long enough? Was I merely giving her my observation? Was I somehow jealous because she was wearing something I didn’t have the guts to wear and, therefore, I critiqued it? Was I just simply concerned that perhaps her gluteus may peek a cheek if she bent over? Any one of those questions could have been my answer, but which one was it? And not only that, but I must ask myself once the objective of my thought has been identified, if it is contentious or unpleasant, then what shall I do about it? How will I change negative ideas? And if my thinking is affable, then how will I grow it? The ultimate question is ‘what do I want to occupy my soul, love or unkindness’? The driving force of either of the two will persuade everything I do.
I am currently in the process, well, let me be honest, I am ALWAYS in the process of self examination and keeping constant with practicing being a better parent, better woman, better communicator, better daughter, better friend, the list goes on and on, but a better person all in all. Each day is a continual effort, striving to be a better me; to never lose sight of my authentic self nor burden someone else with the responsibility of placing blame for my own actions. Who I really am must persist to be present despite circumstances and who or what is in the scenery surrounding me at any given moment. Since it has become extremely important to determine what the motives are of others as they interact in my life, I have had to turn the finger around and point it back at me, and evaluate what my intentions are in every thought, every comment, and every act. The power of intent is extremely crucial in deciding so many things. Who do I vote for as next president? Do I vote for someone who has made a few decisions that I would have liked done differently, but has a heart for the people of this country; whose heart I feel is honorable? Or do I vote for someone who claims to have the answer to our future financial success, but I wouldn’t trust him with a 2 foot pole? Who I want to represent me in the world is the one “whose intentions are good”. Intent can also decide if a friendship is worth maintaining or restoring. If I argue with a friend, I may choose to dissolve the relationship where I know, that all the friend wanted to do was hurt me. If I know that we just had a difference of opinion, although some nasty things were said, then perhaps it would make it worth it, to get through some ugliness because my friend truly loved me enough to tell me their truth, and deliberate pain was the furthest thing from mind.
What’s in your heart? What are your intentions in each of the activities that make up your daily life? When you lie down for the evening are you happy and peaceful with all that you’ve done for yourself and for others throughout the day? Have only kind words parted your lips and friendly gestures been expressed? If not, what will you do about it; what adjustments will you make? When we feel good about ourselves, we abandon the need to hurt others. It is of no shame to me to admit that I am a HUGE fan of A.A. Milne, who created the tales of Christopher Robin and Winnie the Pooh. There are so many lessons to be learned from those stories about a bear that loved honey and a little boy who loved him, so I will leave you with this quote, “Promise me you’ll always remember: You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”
Live life with the best intentions.
`good health and high spirits
me4meand4u 