"If your everyday life seems poor, don't blame it;
blame yourself; admit to yourself that you are not
enough of a poet to call forth its riches; because
for the creator there is no poverty and no poor
indifferent place."
~Rainer Marie Rilke
Good morning! When I was 21 I
read Rainer Marie Rilke's book, Letters to a
Young Poet. This one small volume contained some
of the best advice I ever received for living my
life. I have made a habit of re-reading it each
year. It only takes an afternoon, and I
think my entire copy is highlighted by now!
Rilke has a way of really
challenging us to take responsibility for our
lives. He confronts us with many of our own
"mind games" and he challenges us to move past
them. If you haven't read the book, I
wholeheartedly recommend doing so as one of the
best things you can do for yourself this year.
It is a series of letters between Rilke and a
young poet where he shares advice on living a
full life. Although written many years ago, the
advice is timeless. I have given the book as a
gift many times, and have yet to find a
bookstore that does not have several different
copies on hand.
So often we blame outward
circumstance for our inward feelings. Rilke
challenges us - "Don't blame it, blame
yourself." He knows that each life is beautiful,
but often we have to call forth the riches. Our
life will only be poor and indifferent, if
choose to
let it be so.
Your Turn:
You needn't a poet or artist to "call
forth the riches in life." All you have to do is
realize everything is right here and right now.
Take a fresh picture. Change your perception.
Count your blessings instead of your obstacles.
Your affirmation:
Each day I uncover the many riches in
my life.
