be content

When I look at my life, I have so much to be thankful for. Listing all the ways would be an exercise in narcissism. I know things are good, as they are for many around me.

The trick is to believe it. To live in the thankfulness. To count my blessings instead of looking at all the things I strive for. Just stating it helps to master that trick, but I have miles to go before I sleep.

If you’re struggling like I am, spend a minute or two and think of all the things going your way. Look back over the years and see all the ways that you’ve been cared for. I think it helps to turn pity into gratitude. What do you think?

Primarily in terms of material things, contentedness is eluding me these days.

Depending on what it is, the ownership of something can bring as much discontent as not owning it – I think we know this deep down, that amassing things neither brings happiness, contentedness, nor simplicity. Why is this related to being content? I think it relates to not wanting to change your status – being comfortable with where you are – mentally, spiritually, and in this case economically.

What I try to remind myself is to be grateful for the tangible and intangible things I do have – eyes to see, ears to hear (in an ethical moment); heated seats to keep my tush warm on an icy morning (in my american life of comfort). Does gratitude bring contentedness to you? I think it does me.

The truth is, you can never be content if you are aware of all the atrocities going on around you. If I’m honest with myself I have to admit that even the thought of telling myself ‘self, you are content..be happy with that’ is another way of compartmentalizing my thoughts, and a denial of the struggle going on within.

Is the lack of this ideal restlessness?

Is envy the root of discontent?

I know there are things that one should’t be content about, regarding your beliefs and unfairness of the world, inequality, unjustice, etc. I plan to remain uncontent with those things, but at the same time be content with my place in life, my circumstances, my material posessions. Much easier said than done.