"What simple pleasures of life do you truly enjoy?" - Storyworth

Sunrise over Lake Union

 I enjoy hearing my own thoughts. I know that sounds
self-centered.

Well, it is.

It seems that many people can’t just be with themselves in silence. They must have news or music playing in the background. (Or what passes for news or music these days.)

I start most days in contemplation: five minutes of Positive Intelligence (three minutes of the day’s focus, then two minutes of “PQ” reps, which grow the “self-command muscle”), then 20 minutes of silent meditation. It feels like ballast in my sailboat that helps me stay upright even in a blow.

I used to practice guided meditation, but I soon found that I like just focusing on my breathing. Sometimes I’ll meditate about something on my mind, but I try not to get sucked into a spiral of angst, frustration, and anger. If I can imagine a solution and implement it myself, great, but there’s no reason to get worked up about something I can’t change.

I love early morning walks. They let me get ready for a busy day.

When I worked at Google in Seattle, sunrises over Lake Union always gave me joy.

Sunset over Flanders Bay

Or, if I’m visiting family in Maine, I’ll marvel at a sunset over Flanders Bay. Those are magical times.

Sometimes I like to just sit near the water’s edge and watch wavelets lap the shoreline. Or ships pass by, if there are any.

Sipping wine in Port Townsend

On one of our several visits to Port Townsend, Stephanie and I found a wine bar with outdoor seating overlooking the anchorage. We captured the moment. It speaks to the simple joy of the moment. Being with my soul mate. Watching boats at anchor. Sipping wine.