Lex has recorded an audio version of today's blog for you - just follow this link:

https://soundcloud.com/lex-mckee/rhythms-cycles-ripples-part-1

Rhythms, Cycles and Ripples

Sammy Davis Jnr said it well,

"And the rhythm of life is a powerful beat,

"Puts a tingle in your fingers and a tingle in your feet,

"Rhythm in your bedroom, rhythm in the street,

"Yes, the rhythm of life is a powerful beat."

[Song, "The Rhythm of Life."]

There's a rhythm and a cycle to your year, your Seasons, your month, your week, your day and night. Every moment has its own rhythm.

And your personality has its own "Signature Rhythm"... something that sets 'you' apart by the way you walk, the way you talk, even the way you shrug your shoulders.

Or to sing again...

"The way you wear your hat.

"The way you sip your tea...

"The way your smile just beams.

"The way you sing off-key.

"The way you haunt my dreams...

"The way you hold your knife (do-do-do-do do-do).

"The way we danced until three.

"The way you've changed my life..."

[Song, "They Can't Take That Away From Me."]

There are many messages here, but I'd like to begin today with drawing our attention to circles that ripples make.

Life happens. Events happen like dropping a stone into the pond of our lives. The effects ripple out.

Some things we can control, some things we can influence, and some things are outside this in what we can call "The Circle of Concern". Knowing the difference between these ripples or circles can really help us respond with resilience. By focusing on what we can control and what we can influence, we can feel empowered. It's not always possible to let go of those matters that are outside our control and influence but weigh upon our concerns. However, time is mercifully finite. If we choose to invest our finite time in giving attention to the circles of control and influence, the positive ripples will spread out and even transform the ways we see the circle of concern.

To conclude this first in a series, I'd just like to say that there will be a rhythm and cycle to your day - a time in the day when you'll feel more able to deal with 'stuff'. I'm stronger, sharper, more effective in the morning. I know this. So, getting in synch with this rhythm of life can make all the difference to working on what you can control and influence.

Here's to perfect timing.

Lex

A Moodscope member.