Connecting Through Appreciation

"Appreciation is a wonderful thing.

It makes what is excellent in others

belong to us as well."

Voltaire

As human beings, we experience a broad range of emotions.  In times when we are challenged, we may have to look else where for appreciation.  We can appreciate what we have had the courage to endure in the past.  We can revere the strength of our ancestors.  To move ourselves into the presence of greatness whether this finds us in nature, galleries, libraries or solitude,  the appreciation for what we observe will open our hearts.  

There is nothing to compare to the awe of childlike reaction.  To be clearly open and present to any given moment, greeting and embracing the magic therein.  Unexpected sweetness, a surge of joy, the vibration of happiness, and the return to balance of our emotional upset, can happen any where and at any given time.

When we open our hearts in spite of our anguish, we can be moved to stages of deep appreciation.  When we take in a deep sense of appreciation for whatever crosses our path, our energy will begin to resonate and an exchange can occur.  Through expansion, our problems will be more manageable and discontinue to overwhelm.  

It is when we withdraw that we no longer see the connection to other things.  We no longer feel the frequency of joy, happiness, or appreciation.  We feel alone and no longer have the width of perception to include the good surrounding us.  

Open up!  See the positive no matter how hard the strain.  Let the appreciation for what is good overcome the sense of being defeated.  Place the eyes upon appreciation and it carry its light into any darkness we may face.  Stop the comparison and honor the depth of others.