Another Olympic Lesson: How to Love Life Like the Athletes Do

It’s been a hectic summer so far and I find myself busier than I have been in a long time. Finally, I sat down with my family for the much anticipated Summer Olympic opening and closing ceremonies. I’m always excited to see the display of Olympic spirit as the athletes walk in.

This time I paid attention to how many athletes carried phones and cameras as they marched through the stadium. They were taking it all in and didn’t want to miss anything.

I realized that with my busy schedule, I’m not taking time to appreciate what is around me. An example of this is the beautiful rose bush that is just inside our community club entrance. I walk past that bush at least twice a week taking my kids to the pool or the park.

On my last trip, I finally stopped to smell the roses blooming on the bush. I couldn’t believe how sweet and lovely the smell was. It put an instant smile on my face. What was I missing walking past that bush without stopping to take in the fresh scent? If I’m missing out on a rose bush, what else am I missing out on because I haven’t taken the time to notice?

I thought this would be a good time to make some changes in my own life and invite readers to stop and pause and reflect on what they have and be grateful for it. Here are a few ideas I had that could help us be more aware and appreciative of our blessings.

• Follow the example of the Olympic athletes, carry a camera and take pictures of your loved ones and funny moments throughout your day. At the end of the day or week, look back through your camera and relive the “photo” moments of your week.
• Keep a gratitude journal or notebook to document the good in your life, community and world.
• Tell other people what you like or love about them. Help them to see the good that they have to offer.
• Pick one area in your life you wish you had more time for and make it a priority.

I completely recognize it’s hard to shut off our life and spend all day walking around smelling pretty flowers. However, spending time recognizing what you have and showing appreciation for it truly is time well spent.