whatever

I had six people in a row dissolve into tears in my office this afternoon. Already, February is taking names and knocking people on their butts, and we're only two days into the month. My previous post about sources of peace and comfort was pretty user friendly, but when things get heavy, I think we have to make things even simpler. How? For me, it's getting back to basics. One word: whatever.

Philippians 4:8 has been a huge anchor for me this last year during trying times. Hey, I know you're not all Bible people, but Phil 4:8 is pretty awesome stuff and I think it's a great place to hang out just now: Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Take a moment and really let it sink in: whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy, rest your head and heart on these things. No matter how bad things are, we can always find a pleasing place to focus our attention.

How does my 95 year old mother-in-law cope with being locked in her care home? She has discovered that if she goes downstairs at shift change, the doors open and close with each arrival and departure, which means she gets to breathe fresh air. She also gets to talk to each staff member as they come and go, which refreshes and revitalizes her. Sometimes they'll bring her a cup of coffee or a special treat, which she celebrates with great joy.

How did one of my patients recently celebrate her 40th birthday? She decided to do 40 acts of kindness in one day. Some were for people she knew, some for strangers, some for the planet, some for her community. Instead of lamenting the restrictions that prevented her from having a party, she made her own. And it's gone viral. She's still celebrating her birthday weeks later!

It's a simple word, and "whatever" can be used to dismiss or dispense with a situation that's displeasing to us. But "whatever" can also be used to welcome something in. And at this time, I think things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy are wonderful places to rest our hearts and minds. Happy February, everyone, and here's to a month of truly amazing "whatevers". Bless you today!