“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 twenty-one, I remember being profoundly moved by the words in Rainer Marie Rilke’s book, Letters to a Young Poet.  This one small volume contained some of the best advice I have ever read for living a rich life.  I have made a habit of rereading it each year.  It only takes me an afternoon, and I think my entire copy is now highlighted, as different phrases have “spoken” to me at different times.

Rilke’s words challenge us to take responsibility for our lives.  He confronts us with many of our “mind games,” and challenges us to move past them.  If you have not read Letters to a Young Poet, I wholeheartedly recommend doing so.  The book offers a series of letters between Rilke and a young poet in which he shares advice on living a full life.  Although written many years ago, the book’s advice is timeless.  I have given this book as a gift many times and have yet to find a bookstore that does not have several different copies on hand.

Often, we blame outward circumstances for our inner feelings.  Rilke challenges us with: “Don’t blame it, blame yourself.”  He knows that each life is beautiful, but we have to call forth the riches.  Our life will only be poor and indifferent if we choose to let it be so.

Your Turn:  You needn’t be a poet or artist to “call forth the riches in life.”  Take a fresh picture.  Change your perception.  Count your blessings instead of your obstacles.

Today’s Affirmation:  Each day, I uncover the many riches in my life.