Upon the 200th Day Milestone of Gratitude Ritual

 

The journey of 100 days seemed longer than yet another renewed path for 100 days and when I touched the 200^th mark, perhaps I knew that it had become a part of me. I still remember the excitement that I had expressed as a novice, when I had shared my 100 Days to Art of Self Mastery and Inculcate Happy Habits.

 Well, this time, in the morning, while I penned down the Day 200 mark in my diary, I was grateful and quite grounded. I was happy, yet I chose to express as a smile. The obvious curious question would be what new did I achieve? A mixed bag of experiences that I would sort, filter and share, for the benefit of those who might find these tips and facts helpful in their life. I wish not to be too preachy or philosophical because each individual chooses their own path of happiness, love and peace while identifying their purpose of life.

1.       Gratitude is not merely a word to be give away as a cliché, it is rather a big virtue professed by almost all the ancient philosophers. Whether it was Marcus Aurelius, Confucius, Socrates or our very own Buddha, Chanakya, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Sri Aurobindo, they all spoke of the importance of being kind and thankful by way of thoughts, words and actions. It was a part of every virtue that they taught the human race. So I guess it is all about how a person chooses to practice that matters. Nature and humans are inseparable in anyone’s life so writing or feeling a deep sense of appreciation through words spoken and even in deep silence transmits the highest positive energy and joy within (to the giver and the receiver).

2.       Meditation is like an important component in your life as if special skill in our job profile. A must have, yet it has its own shades and styles again. With a lot of free guides in this regard, one has to choose the best way that suits their pattern of thinking. Yet the ultimate aim is to help people cleanse their aura or energy that is entwined in the energies of others around or associated miles away. Energy travels at supersonic jet speed so meditation is basically meant to calm and help you observe. Focus on your breath or point of light or as you wish to. Consistency is the key to master this. The mind gallops behind a 100 thoughts, which imperative yet as you practice regularly, you will choose absolute silence.

3.       Pure connections in life are important. You were not born to reside alone in an island. So with best of friends and well wishers in your journey of life, each day becomes worthwhile. You share, learn, laugh and grow much stronger. Mistakes are regarded and viewed as humanly, solutions are bestowed effortlessly and generously by the experienced to help you sail on without a scratch. Some choose to stay with you as stars in the sky, always happy to connect, while some choose to remain a happy memory. What matters is the valuable moments. Khalil Gibran quoted, ‘Friendship is always a sweet responsibility, never an opportunity.’

4.       Passion for your art of expression is important. Never let the light dim for anyone or anything at all. Yes, each human is gifted with a talent. Some write, some paint, some speak, some dance and some are simple amazing teachers or motivators for others. We need to follow our heart yet practice to think rationally as well. Be bold to try something new as well, who knows you might just strike gold. I love poetry and I love to give myself challenges each month, as I did the 31 days Gratitude 2020 poetic adventure in December, or maybe a post on social media to show my photo journalistic skills. It’s just about doing it with no apprehensions or approvals at all.

5.       Altruism is not just for spiritual seekers. It is supposed to be a part of every human nature. Well, the world might be looking bizarre and money-minded with promotions and marketing gurus luring the masses to materialistic short-term achievements at the cost of others, well, it is absolutely fine to have your own definition of success that has unconditional sense of helping others in their journey of success while climbing yours. Humanity is above all and in the end our precious possessions in life would consist of  your healthy lifetime relationships based on selfless care.

6.       Listening to honest souls gives a better perspective about life. They are the purest humans who believe in giving wings to your dreams and letting you fly higher, by yourself. It is mutual. They are miles away yet they help you without even you having to express in explicit words. They know your silence much better just as your ramblings. Their presence as friends for life or good constants calls for no conditions apply, for those who are meant to stay on, and believe in respecting your space and celebrating your presence in their life.

7.       Family is a very important and their support in your life will help you win any battle in life. While you ought keep being closer and grateful for them, in turn the bond of love keeps growing deeper and this is the most expensive asset in your life. So giving ample time to them is a must as they will get wealthier through this investment, in love and compassion.

The  200 days had offered its own ups and downs yet as I entailed, it’s the power of right friends, gratitude daily, meditation, quality family time and because of angelic special humans in my life, the journey seemed shorter and brighter with timely blessings, love, support and abundance of divinely guidance. Books, podcasts and music are soul soothers too. While letting go of things not meant for my highest good, new beginnings open up a new path for me in my Gratitude ritual. 

Sincere Gratitude to one and all who are there in my journey, some like mystics, some like angels, more like pure friends!