God, give us grace to accept with serenity the things that cannot be changed, courage to change the things which should be changed and the wisdom to distinguish the one from the other.
Reinhold Niebuhr
Years ago I would have completely dismissed the above quote, thinking I didn’t have time to contemplate such nonsense.
Now, it sums up my journey of the past decade or so. Finding serenity, searching for grace, deciding what can be changed and what cannot.
My journey has led me over tall mountains, in deep valleys and down the road less traveled. It is not a physical journey but a spiritual one.
Occasionally I tire and stop to rest. But then I pick up my walking stick and begin again.
I remember what I have to be thankful for. My family, my friends, the moon, the stars, heaven and earth.
I remind myself what I have no control over– all of the above.
If I think I can control other things, living or otherwise, I am a fool. I can only control myself and my reaction to people, places and things. This is the secret of serenity- minding my own business.
The journey has been a difficult one at times and it is not over. It is continuous. If I remember every day to have gratitude for my life, my serenity will be easier to maintain.
Thank you to WordPress for an inspiring word today- Journey!
How do you find daily Grace?
I absolutely agree.
And by controlling myself and giving freedom to others, I suddenly have an inroad of influence. The only possible, gentle way of bringing change is to be a good example, displaying God’s goodness and grace, and respecting their free will. And yes, gratitude is the key to have rest in the midst of a storm. Serenity in circumstances.
Blessings.
Ralph, I couldn’t have said it better. Blessings to you too! Many thanks for stopping by…Joanne
I have a real problem with this right now, but I am working on it! I am trying not to react emotionally to the outside stresses and to not try to ‘fix’ things that are beyond my control. I feel a profound relief when I can ‘let go and let God’ and walk away from whatever it is…but I usually go and ‘take it back’. It’s a struggle, but one I am working on!
Have a blessed weekend and week ahead!
Cathy, I know how difficult this can be, believe me! Especially when in the midst of stressful situations, serenity can be really hard to maintain….
I am praying for you! Remember to reach out to others (like you did right here!) who are of peaceful mind and let them help you. xo Joanne
Good Morning! I love the post abot bringing change in gentle ways by being a good example…very inspiring! Thank you! Enjoyed your post , Joanne! Happy Memorial Day!
Thank you Cindy for stopping by! Hope you have a wonderful holiday weekend as well…Joanne
Wonderful post! I totally agree. Matter-of-fact, I was just saying to my son that we can only control the things we can control, which is ourselves. Thank you!
See? We are on the same wave length! Thanks for commenting!! Joanne
A lovely post to go with one of the greatest quotes ever. And I love the serenity of your photo of the rose which combines beautifully with the serene ‘wallpaper’ on your blog.
I love my latest look too. Thank you. Serenity to you my dear…
The Serenity Prayer is one of my favorites. And I love the new photo you’ve posted of yourself, Joanne. (((Hugs))), Peg
Thanks Peg! xo Joanne