My day 8 of 68 was sort of like the weather today; cloudy, dreary, not very exciting. But I’m committed or should be, so here goes…
Physical
I worked through my usual rounds of exercises. I’m still thankful for only being at level 5 when that last single rep comes around so I’m not sure I’m ready to push up to 6 yet. I’m still planning on doing that Saturday or Sunday when my schedule allows for more time. I will time myself on level 6 so I know how much time I need to get it done along with my spiritual “exercises.
Spiritual
I prayed through the Office of Readings and Morning Prayer as usual but didn’t have time for the daily readings. I asked myself, “self, why didn’t you have enough time?” The answer, I spent some time on my phone when I first woke. This is a terrible habit that simply sucks time out of my life. Facebook, emails, news, etc., etc., just seem to make time disappear. Self discipline is setting priorities. When those “priorities” have to take a back seat to endless scrolling, they are no longer priorities. Through the remaining 60 days I’ll be working on breaking up with my phone and screens as I intended to do. Sorry, Pixel, it’s not me, it’s you. Well, actually it’s me…need to practice that Extreme Ownership a little more I guess.
Evening Prayer tonight focuses and prepares us for the Solemnity of All Saint’s Day tomorrow. It’s a great day to refocus on life and goals – you know, to be a Saint!
Emotional
Today was even keeled and I so I wasn’t emotionally high (except for directly after exercise) or low. Last night’s dialogue with Nicole over the question “What feeling of mine do I hide from you?” went well. After reading each other’s answers we discussed those feelings, why we hide them, and how to overcome that. I love that I can now share with my wife these little bits of information about myself. I love that I can do so without worrying about her thinking less of me, judging me, or feeling hurt. If either of us feels hurt or uncomfortable with how an answer made us feel, we help each other work through that as well. As I’ve always said, most of the worlds problems could be solved with open, honest communication!
Intellectual
Wow did I struggle with my left-handed cursive today. Who would have thought that a little squiggly line could be so difficult. I was feeling very confident going into the exercise but the lower-case e’s humbled me. I pushed through and in the end I felt a lot better about my ability but I know I have a long way to go.
Spanish continues to progress. The problem I have with it, I think, is that I’m trying to translate as I’m learning and speaking instead of truly learning it. I know that my mind works a certain way. I like to figure things out, solve puzzles, and make connections that others may not see. I’m almost positive this is what is causing me problems right now. Instead of trying to become an excellent Spanish speaker, I’m becoming a halfway decent translator. I don’t want that. I’ll keep pushing forward and immersing myself. Maybe I should spend a couple years in Spain or Mexico…
How was your day? Did it go well? Did you have some setbacks? Is there anything I can help with? Let me know in the comments!
I like today’s A.I. title. The image is okay, at least there isn’t a multitude of fingers in this image for once. I’m guessing he is holding a phone? Maybe he’s playing hot potato with someone..?
James M. Hahn, Author 