As an avid reader of two books a month, I read “Limitless” by Jim Kwik four years ago. Today, I continue to be limitless in writing five things down each day to be grateful for and not taking specific things in my life for granted.
When you look at the symbol for limitless or infinity, it resembles a sideways figure eight. “Infinity is boundless, endless, or larger than any natural number. The infinity symbol often denotes it.”
Unraveling the Infinity Symbol: Its Origins and Impact on Mathematics — Curiosmos
Jim Kwik inspired me to write those five things down as many of us four years ago were trying to understand COVID-19 and how the pandemic changed the world.
However, I put his words into action and have journaled ever since.
As I celebrate my fourth year of journaling, the experience is rewarding as I can look back in time. I’ve also learned through the process that I should never take things for granted, specifically my health.
The days of me being 30 and bulletproof are long gone.
As I hit my internal reset button this month, I quickly realized that April showed up with actions items I had planned on doing a few months ago.
In a Golfer’s world, the word “Mulligan” or a free shot is sometimes given to a golfer in informal play when the previous shot was poorly played.
Mulligan Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster
What free shots do you need in 2024?
Earlier this week, as I was meditating, I thought about various things to be grateful for, such as the three numbers “7-5-7” and how far I have been.
For those wondering, 7-5-7 is the area code where I grew up in Newport News, Virginia.
I’ve never forgotten my roots, and at this point, it’s hard not to.
On my wall I have the words “Don’t forget where you came from, but never lose sight of where you are going.”
Growing up with three military bases around me, in the early to mid-70s, many people found employment at the Shipyard as a source of income and retired from there. I did not.
“The shipyard is a major employer, not only for the lower Virginia Peninsula, but also portions of Hampton Roads south of the James River and the harbor, portions of the Middle Peninsula region, and even some northeastern counties of North Carolina.”
Then, after my last duty assignment from the military, I spent 18 combined years in Augusta, GA.
Just like the Shipyard in Newport News, VA, many of the people I knew worked at Savannah River Nuclear Solutions or SRS, I did not.
SRNS – Our Location (savannahrivernuclearsolutions.com)
When I think about leaving the 7-5-7 area at 17 and not looking back, I’m grateful that I joined the military.
I’m grateful that I realized I didn’t need to do what others did in the local area.
I’ve written many entries in my gratitude journal, including my education, having both a bachelor’s and master’s degree, and various certifications with attendance at various prestigious colleges.
I say this not in a braggadocio matter; however, knowing how God has blessed me and continues to bless me is worth being grateful.
Also, having lived near and growing up in the projects and seeing them every day I travel to Mass on the other side of town, there is a sense of empathy for the people that walk the streets daily.
Sometimes, and most often even on my trips back and forth to Birmingham, Montgomery, and Tuscaloosa, seeing the haves and have-nots makes me even more grateful for what I have and the current journey that I’m on now.
This month is a reminder that we can do more in 2024. It’s how we set our priorities and gratitude for living each day.
I’m so glad that my past has not decided my future and that my thoughts do not sabotage me.
Don’t Allow Your Past to Control Your Future | Psychology Today
In addition, I’m grateful for being part of the community in 2024 rooted in Positive Intelligence (PQ) with Shirzad Chamine.
This is one area in which I continue to grow my PQ.
“The past doesn’t define you; your present does. It’s okay to create a vision of the future because it affects your behavior in the “now,” but don’t dwell on past mistakes. Learn from them and focus on those lessons in the moment. That’s where change can really happen.”
— Jillian Michaels
Therefore, don’t give your past the power to define your future.
Today, it’s about being grateful and not taking anything for granted.
I love to journal. I have been journaling since I was a teen. I received a gratitude journal for Christmas and it has been such a blessing to end the evening reflecting on the day and expressing gratitude. Even in the small things we may take for granted. Just to write I’m thankful to have returned home from the day and be able
To write those words in the comfort of my home and bed. Gratitude definitely makes you shift your focus and perspective.
Ashley,
Wow, I’m honored to have met a person such as yourself. One can say that when I close out my day for reflections my gratitude journal sets the tone. I also write notes of gratitude anytime I can return home. Thank you for taking the time to share your story. Have a great week ahead.
McKinley
I really appreciate your discipline in reading two books a month, I do believe knowledge is power! I also have a gratitude journal and try to always be positive, some days are difficult to see the positive, but there is always a reason to be grateful. . My 2024 reset will be to seek out more positive people to be in my life!
Scott,
Greetings and always a pleasure to view your comments. Discipline resides in all of us, and I’m honored that you too are journaling. Keep it up, as I’m sure you’ll see the benefits. Best of luck in your 2024 reset of seeking out more positive people.
McKinley
Good morning CM, thanks for sharing. I find journaling to be therapeutic and found it to assist with staying on course with my personal goals in life. It also has helped with reflecting on the amount of growth I have experienced in my life. Additionally, I like how you referenced where you are from as I often reflect on my humble beginnings in Lake Providence, Louisiana (i.e. knows as the 3-1-8 or LP).
Terrance,
Good morning,
Thank you for sharing your insights and perspectives. Unlike yourself with journaling being therapeutic, I find it necessary for me to remain grounded. I totally agree with “It also has helped with reflecting on the amount of growth I have experienced in my life.” From the 7-5-7 to the 3-1-8 it’s great to connect! Have a great weekend!
CM
I love this: “we can do more in 2024.” It’s a reminder to me that I can always improve. And I don’t know much about golf, but I know we all could use “free shots” or second chances, at times. I’m grateful for those second chances that God grants me every day. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Terica,
Greeting and I’m honored that you like “we can do more in 2024.” As a lifelong learner, I have learned that if we want to achieve more, we need to have the right mindset. Everyday you and I get second chances, however how we use them is up to us. Continue to do more in 2024.
McKinley