my own hue

Life is a train of moods like a string of beads;

and as we pass through them they prove to be many colored lenses,

which paint the world their own hue,

and each shows us only what lies in its own focus.

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

I read this quote on my way to work this morning on the subway. I guess it's true what they say: you can find inspiration anywhere. It inspired me. Inspired me to blog! I've been so busy at work lately that I haven't taken the time to post. And I haven't felt that nagging feeling that says, "Uptown Girl, the world needs to hear about ____ topic! Write about this:____!" AKA, no real inspiration.

But, please reread that quote. For me, it is so true. Truth. Word. It speaks to me and it says: choose your attitude because your attitude changes everything. When I'm in a bad mood, everything seems bleak. But when I even try a little bit to break out of that mood, well the sun begins to shine in my mind. Lately I've been breaking out of the yucky mood when it arises by getting grateful. Putting things in perspective.

My perspective is this:

I have a job, friends who I love, family who I love, a great apartment, and my finances are looking up. I'm healthy and able to be active. I have a 2nd date with TV man on Saturday. And my sister lets me borrow her great accessories and wardrobe whenever I want.

Life is good. My problems are luxury problems (at least right now). Problems do exist and I by no means think that it's good to walk through life with rose colored glasses all the time... that would be tacky. However, I should be rejoicing rather than complaining about the weather or my hair or boys, for example. But when I let myself sink into that yucky mood, I feel hopeless about my bangs and my good job and men. I let myself forget. I start to see through a blue lens.

Perspective is everything.

I have one patient who is a girl my age, wheelchair bound, has difficulty speaking (although she does speak) and moving, and yet every single time I see her she has a huge smile and gives me a hug. Her hugs are giving hugs. They are full of warmth and love and they seem to be hugs that she knows people need. She never says this, but I feel as though when she opens her arms for a hug it is like "here, you need a hug". Anywho. She gives me perspective. Life is what you make of it.

Today I got some incredible news and my mood is lifted. And I look good today (if I do say so myself). My hair is behaving. There is low humidity. I'm eating surf&turf for dinner tonight. For free. What could be better? My lens is a bright sunny yellow.