THE CHALLENGE - DAY 12

I am writing this blog today from a friend's apartment in rainy New York City. Consistent with my personality at home in the SoCal sunshine, I have been on the go for the last few days! Determined not to let the rain get in my way, I hit the streets to visit the recently opened 9/11 Memorial, then ventured to SoHo for a shopping spree, and also managed to find my way to a famous pizza place located under the Brooklyn Bridge. By the time I arrived to Grimaldi's for a quick bite I was exhausted, damp, and on the verge of grumpy having not eaten all day.

Much to my surprise, I was greeted by a sign on the front door that said "No ordering by the slice!". Ok, fine. Table for one and let's also order the entire pizza. The bald Italian with a thick accent chuckled at my disheveled blonde mane and suggested I grab a seat at the bar. First order placed was for a cold Heineken. Next, I let him order my pizza. He shyly smiled and his demeanor put me at ease. It was if his eyes were saying, "Calm down and just enjoy your beer. We're all family here."

I took a long lunch and enjoyed observed watching everyone around me. The bar tender conversed with the owner in his native Italian, the two heckled the employee who showed up late to his afternoon shift, the old man next to me (who I would imagine also knew a word or two if Italian) took down his whole pizza with a glass of red wine, and the three German teenagers at the end of the bar were pretty proud of taking down their entire large pizza.

Later that night my friend asked me what my favorite part of my day was and the one vivid memory that my mind immediately shot to was the scene at Grimaldi's. So what's today's challenge? "Take the time to live with your eyes wide open."

The Challenge - Day 12 

Physical 
How often do you exercise outdoors? When you do, do you observe the life and landscape that you are passing by? Or do you just zone out and listen to music? I challenge you to take on some outdoor activity and observe life unfolding all around you. 


Spiritual 
Self awareness is key to experiencing a more fulfilling spiritual connection. We can easily say the words of prayer, attend a church service, or even glaze over the words of a self help book. Spend the next couple of spending your time intentionally in your thoughts and actions towards spiritual growth. Calm the to-do list,turn off the noise, and be present in the moment. 


Personal 
I realize that I have a tendency to repeat the theme of "slow down" and perhaps it is because that is what I can relate to most often...but I would venture to guess that in today's world of hi-tech instantaneous results and communication that we could all use a regular reminder to slow it down. If you can take an hour, or even just five minutes, practice some deep breathing or stretching. Cleanse your mind of the chaos and hit the 'reset' button. Perhaps you will be able to observe the daily happenings with fresh eyes and clarity -- to see things for the first time that have actually been there all along.