“Be moderate in order to taste the joys of life in abundance.” Epicurus

Wisdom inclines us to eat and drink less in order that we may enjoy more. I have often regretted eating one more piece of pizza, but I have never regretted refusing one. Simply put, moderation is the key to enjoying every gift of God. Less is more and quality over quantity is pleasure without regret. 

“All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be enslaved by anything.” 1Cor.6.12 “Conversations Within” ts 4/28/2018

“Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is relax.” Unknown

One of the best gifts that God has given to mankind is the commandment to rest. Learning to rest and relax is a skill that matures over time. It is one thing to still the body and another to quiet the soul. Someone has said, “Just be.” When we stop the body we must also learn to stop thinking and rest the mind. Embrace and enjoy the moment. Open this precious gift and find rest for your soul. There is an Italian phrase I love, “La dolce far niente.” It means, “the sweetness of doing nothing.”

“Thou shalt rest...” God “Conversations Within” ts 4/25/2018

“I've chosen to treat my life more like a party than something to stress about.” Martin Short

We should celebrate life, not endure it. Choose to find joy in all you do. People speak of being in their “happy place.” The heart at peace is always happy. When the heart is happy everywhere is a stroll on the beach, or a walk in the woods. May God grace us to change our attitude and learn to love what we do, not just selfishly do only what we love.

“Always be dressed in your party clothes.” Ecc.9 “Conversations Within” ts 4/27/2018

“Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers. Pray for powers equal to your tasks!” Phillip Brooks

A stress free life sounds desirable until we realize that without a measure of resistance, muscles grow weak. This is no less true of the muscles of our inner life. Physical strength and strength of soul must be exercised if they are to remain strong and grow stronger. A certain amount of stress is healthy, and especially so when we adjust our attitude to accept and work with it.

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Ps.73.26 “Conversations Within” ts 4/26/2018

“Don’t make an elephant out of a fly.” Zoran Vujovići

We talk about “making a big deal” out of a small matter, or “blowing things out of proportion,” simply because we all do it from time to time. We complain, and when we do we just burden ourselves and others with whatever we are complaining about. Our aches and pains, how hot it is, how long the line, and how heavy the load, always seem to weigh more in the grip of our grumbling. Cease these unnecessary labors, and learn to live light hearted and to hold each day with an easy hand.

“Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice..” Ps.32.11 Conversations Within” ts 4/24/2018