Lately, I’ve been reflecting a lot. Is it cynical of me to want to inspire calm and joy, even when I sometimes feel sad or stressed? And that leads me to this question: Must we be either happy or sad? Or is it possible to feel both? Can we even experience both calmness and restlessness at the same time?
My life isn’t always a bed of roses, as I’ve shared in the “About Me” section. That shows both between and on the lines. And life isn’t a bed of roses for most people either. I started this profile because I care deeply about how we respond to difficult days. Along the way, I’ve asked myself some questions I’d love to explore with you:
- Does anything really improve by only focusing on the negative and what’s wrong?
- Can we become too positive?
- Can we feel sad when hearing birdsong?
- Is the glass sometimes half empty instead of half full?
The questions are as diverse as the answers. There’s no one right solution. Our perspective will shift – from day to day, or even hour to hour.
In my experience, trying to stay positive can often brighten the day, for myself and for those around me. It’s hard to stay in a bad mood when you truly listen to the beautiful birdsong. A lovely color in your craft project can lift your spirits. Soft yarn or a tasty meal can also bring joy.
But if we become too focused on being positive, that can backfire. We are maybe ending up ignoring the fact that something is truly sad or scary.
What if we simply allowed ourselves to be mindful? Notice smells, sounds, and sights. Feel what the wind or the yarn in our hands awakens in us. Take a deep breath and just be – with our thoughts and emotions. Allow it to be okay.
Maybe you’re like me and sometimes notice a few deep, unplanned breaths. Those genuine breaths all the way down into your belly. After being here – both with the good and the difficult – the birdsong is maybe feeling more real. The colors around you are hopefully brighter. The feeling of wind or yarn is more tangible.
If you’re anything like me, you know it’s okay. It’s natural to be both sad and happy. Calm and a little stressed. Life holds it all.
That’s not cynical – that’s being alive, in both joy and struggle.
So far, I’ve never felt worse from noticing beauty around me. On the contrary.
I’d be so happy if you wanted to share your own thoughts or experiences. Feel free to contact me by email. You can also send a message on Instagram or Facebook. Alternatively, leave a comment below.
Life isn’t just black or white – there are countless shades in between.
Wishing you a beautiful day with birdsong and color.
Warmly,
Bente
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