“Being acutely aware of one’s environment and the intrinsic value of those around us is a sensitivity and skill very few people have or practice.”-Suanne Lewis
The above comment is one I constructed this week when met by a flurry of critical, and some downright unkind, comments resulting from my free download offer of basic hints to develop a mindfulness practice. Now, don’t get me wrong; there were plenty of positive likes and comments as well. I guess I was perplexed by the negativity towards learning a practice that helps us see the blessings in our everyday world and the unique qualities of those we encounter in our daily lives, including our own family members.
When I consider my own mindfulness practice, I am met with Baxter’s sweet and touching memories in my little Baxter Tales book and the impetus it provided for me to see the beauty in circumstances that were challenging and unexpected.
In my many years, I have observed countless people who are serious, intelligent folks who are so driven to do and accomplish their own agendas that they miss the special qualities of their companions, coworkers, children, and environment, often complaining of being misunderstood or taken for granted. How interesting yet tragic that we inevitably reap what we sow as the old saying goes.
This thinking is what inspired my second book, a workbook for parents, Do You Know How To Talk with Your Young Child? I hoped it would serve as a reminder and stimulus for parents to avoid minimizing the importance of spending quiet, fun time with their children, providing a regular opportunity to explore their understanding of the world and its creatures while giving them a chance to become more familiar with their parent figure as an individual rather than as a chauffeur to other activities.
Daily, I believe we are provided innumerable gifts to enchant and delight us, but they may be easy to miss if we don’t look for them. I’m devoted to helping those who are curious and open to notice and enjoy the fascinating world we have around us.
Mindfulness is a gentle, affirming, and healthful practice.
Take care, my friends,
Suanne