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I've noticed some new lines on my face this year. Sure, I'm spending more time in the sun here in Mexico than I did back in Oregon, but I prefer to believe that these apostrophes around my eyes are the result of hours of laughter. Just looking at them makes me smile. I view them as proof of my less-is-more and light-is-right approach to mindfulness. Besides, I've learned that one of the most obvious qualities of someone who has clarity is a well-developed sense of humor. You see, once you get a grip on your own often-warped perspective, you can't help but laugh at the many quirky things you see around and within you. A finely-tuned respect for the ridiculous keeps us from taking ourselves too seriously even when we're facing difficult challenges. It is possible to see our circumstances--even dire ones--clearly and at the same time remain light and full of humor. In our culture, we tend to believe that those who are cheerful just don't get it. We think that if you really understand the state of the world and the gravity of the challenges we face as humans, you must hunch from the weight of this burden and grimace in the face of such despair. Wrong. We need lightness and humor MOST when we are dealing with severely difficult and seemingly hopeless situations. In fact, those who have been through the most excruciating ordeals are often the ones with the most profound sense of levity. Need an example? Take the Dalai Lama. Wisdom, knowledge and spiritual fortitude sometimes come in light packages. One of the reasons His Holiness has captured our hearts is that he is able to smile and joke despite circumstances that would fill most of us with rage. Happy gurus rock. There is tremendous power in lighthearted determination. We need to be reminded that lightness and depth go hand in hand, and that it's possible-- no, essential-- to have fun while following our own personal path to a positive perspective. Here's a tip: don't trust any teacher who has no laugh lines. Don't follow the teachings of anyone who espouses an approach requiring severity. Don't get caught in thinking that contemplation requires scowling. And most of all, remember that laughter gives your brain a welcome blast of oxygen. Take a look at those you admire. Pay attention to their perspective. Is it ultimately positive, even if they are tackling important work or facing insurmountable obstacles? The greatest step you can take toward your own development as a fully-engaged human is to look for the laughter. Find those who inspire you with their integrity and dedication--and seek out the ones among them who laugh the most. I've also noticed some new vertical lines above my upper lip. I like to think it's from all the kissing I do here in Latin America. This merry mindfulness path might make wrinkles, but as long as they are the result of increased joy, I'll keep celebrating every time I look in the mirror.
Article Source: http://www.content.onlypunjab.com
Maya Talisman Frost has taught thousands of people how to pay attention. Her playful, eyes-wide-open approach to mindfulness has been featured in over 150 publications worldwide. To read her free tips and tricks for practical awareness, visit www.Real-WorldMindfulness.com
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