As I was flipping through the June 2020 issue of Travel + Leisure dreaming of future trips I would love to take, I came across an article that I actually stopped to read. I generally find myself looking at all the pictures and not reading a lot of the content, but something about this particular article caught my attention.
The author found themselves living in a city much different from the community in which they had previously lived. Their current city doesn't have as much to admire when it comes to the aesthetics, scenery, or feel - at least not on the surface. The author began to shift their perspective. Instead of focusing on how different the two communities are from each other, she began to look for the stories behind the people, architecture, and historical events that shaped this city into what it is.
It got me thinking about how often we can miss the past seasons of our lives, focus on the negative circumstances around us, and live in a place of discontent. It's okay to reminisce and enjoy the good memories. There's something to be said about remembering. We also don't need to ignore the reality of our current circumstances. However, being content in our current season, despite the circumstances we may find ourselves in, is such a gift.
Contentment is often defined as a deep feeling of satisfaction and gratitude. It doesn't mean that we always like our circumstances or don't hope for new opportunities, experiences, and relationships. It does mean that we may need a shift in our perspective.
Take a look around you and find something beautiful. Think of the hopes and inspirations of the people around you. Reflect on what the city you're living in was like 50 years ago. Who had a part in building the city and shaping it into what is today? Whose feet have walked these streets before me?
What can you do to shift your perspective and find contentment in today?
