THE CHALLENGE

A young army officer who had a history of anger-related problems was ordered to attend a mindfulness training class to reduce his level of stress. One day, after attending the class for some weeks he stopped for groceries on his way home. He was in a hurry and and a bit irritated, as usual, and the checkout lines were long.

The woman in front of him had only one item but wasn't in the express line. She was carrying a baby and talking to the cashier. He became more irritated. Then she passed the baby to the cashier, who spent a moment cooing over the child. He could feel his anger rising, but because he'd been practicing mindfulness, he became aware of the heat and tightness in his body. He breathed and relaxed. When he looked up again, he saw the child smiling. As he reached the cashier, he said, "That was a cute little boy." Oh, did you likehim? That's my baby," she said. "His father was in the military, but he was killed last winter. Now I have to work full-time. My mom tries to bring my boy in once or twice a day so I can see him."

How wrong our perception of things can be at times. Challenge: Look for the inner nobility and dignity in three people. Notice how this affects your interaction with them, as well as your own heart. Choose five more days when you're in a good mood to do this practice with as many people as you can. After that, add more days and include strangers and difficult people, until your heart learns to silently appreciate and bless all whom you meet. Watch how it will improve your own self.

Do something special for someone today, something you would not ordinarily do. It will brighten your day and improve yourself. It will take a little effort, but it is well worth it.

Have a GREAT day!