Monday, March 22, 2021

Have a Yes Day with Life



My grandson and I watched the movie Yes Day recently. In the movie, a couple decides to reconnect with their kids by having a day of saying yes to whatever the kids want. Comedy ensues.

The movie made me more aware of how often I say no. Maybe I forego a chance to be kind to someone, or an invitation to do something fun. Perhaps I resist a nudge to write about something uncomfortable, or reject an opportunity to have a candid discussion about a sensitive topic. There are times I avoid examining my own conduct or thoughts or assumptions. And how many times have I said no to forgiveness even when I know that my own happiness would be enhanced? 

We say no to life when we want things to be different, or people to be different. When we deny or repress feelings that are distressing or painful. When we struggle to control things beyond our reach, or try to force people or circumstances to conform to our desires. When we want ourselves to be better, smarter, enlightened, and condemn ourselves when we fail in our attempt. 

How would my experience of life be different if I woke up tomorrow and said yes to whatever the day presents? If I remained open and curious instead of judgmental or anxious? If I allowed the day to unfold naturally instead of trying to plan or control every minute? If I watched for miracles instead of problems? If I was grateful instead of complaining? If I accepted myself just as I am? If I embraced each breath and touched every moment with compassion? 

A yes day with life. Let’s see what happens.

For all that has been, thanks. For all that will be, yes. ~Dag Hammarskjold

8 comments:

  1. Great post. Saying yes to the opportunities that come up are similar to my saying "You never know 'til you go" that I wrote about on my blog not too long ago. Saying yes to more things in life can only enhance it. Even if your "yes" takes a bad turn you wind up with a great story to tell.

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    1. Thanks, RCS. Your last point is especially important. Saying yes does not guarantee a particular outcome. Saying yes is not about controlling. It's about flowing, about accepting with openness, about approaching life with curiosity and willingness, about gratitude. Thanks for commenting.

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  2. This is a beautiful, thought-provoking post, Galen. After reading it, I found myself thinking about how often I say "no" or respond in a negative manner. It truly is much easier to flow with life.

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    1. Thanks, Pam. The movie was fun and generated some interesting "yes" experiments with my grandson, but it did get me thinking about life in general and how I approach it. Thanks for your comment.

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  3. A yes day sounds like a marvelous idea, Galen. I'll give it a whirl!
    Blessings!

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    1. I think you probably have lots of yes days, Martha! Thanks for commenting.

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  4. Oh, yes this has beautiful thoughts in it. You are such a talented writer and this really tells a perfect story of the use of yes and no. I learned a lot reading this one and will ponder upon it.
    I agree we need to have more yes days! I loved it all today.
    Blessings and hugs!

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