We all know the only time we have for certain is the moment we are in at the present time. What has happened in the past; good, bad or otherwise, cannot be changed. Tomorrow is not guaranteed us. As the saying goes, today is a present and should be treated like a gift. Easier said than done some days, right?
Taking things one day at a time is a primary part of traditional Japanese Reiki. Dr. Mikao Usui, attributed as the founder of the Reiki healing system, included a set of guiding principles that can be beneficial for each of us to remember every day. These are:
Just for today, do not worry.
Just for today, do not anger.
Just for today, be filled with gratitude.
Just for today, devote yourself to your work.
Just for today, be kind to people.
This present moment is the “present” the Universe has given us. It is so important to align your thinking with what you want to have or create in your life. We all have the ability to attract what we want to manifest in life. And…we also have the ability to attract what we don’t want! It is such a wonderful gift to experience the goodness we can bring into our days.
Just for today, remind yourself that you are an amazing Being. Take time each day to express gratitude to your Higher Power, and the others in your life. There may be days that feel pretty trying, know they are lessons in disguise. On those days, take a moment to identify the lessons being shared and open yourself to learn from them. Be thankful for those times in life—they are amazing teachers. These are great opportunities to grow and change.
If you are having a challenging moment in your day, stop and look at your thought pattern. Are you really trying to tap into a positive response mode? Or, are you letting your anger feed the what-should-have-happened emotions and completely miss the chance to learn and grow. Ask yourself if the situation is truly something you can control? Most likely, the only thing you can control is how you respond. Remember: Just for today, do not worry. Do not anger.
These Principles are not the easiest thing to follow. Start with one of them – which ever one reaches out to you the most. Genuinely try to embrace it and live it. It’s ok if you are not able to make it the full day. Be proud of the fact you made it to that point. Think about what made you stop. Try again tomorrow.
Talk to yourself with positivity and kindness. You are WORTH it! Shift your thinking to what you would really like to create in your life. Do it today – and every day. Pay attention to how your life changes for the better. Embrace that and keep going. You are honoring the wonderful gift of today.
