We reach for seeing Good through our days. The story here demonstrates how we can create wonder when we catch ourselves not focusing on Good, consciously shift to looking for Good. Please enjoy how this account unfolds.

The Beginning

A year ago Danna and Christopher dated for a few months. A few weeks before what unfolds here D and C reconnected at a gathering honoring D’s art work. Chris surprised Danna by appearing at her side over carrot sticks, crackers and cheese.

Before the event ended, C had inquired if D would like to join him for dinner right here at the restaurant. She gratefully accepted. As they parted, the dear man stated he would like to get together again for a walk as the two had done last year.

The Follow up

A couple of weeks later, Danna received a text from Christopher asking for her company as he celebrated his birthday. Soon after he described his vision of what he planned: a meal at a drinking salon like place with a menu that was mostly fried foods. As part of the afternoon, he planned he would imbibe 4 beers.

Our Star felt torn. She wanted to support the man celebrating his birthday as a friend. On the other hand, D did not drink alcohol and was rarely in the company of those who did drink. This woman did not feel comfortable with how she pictured this “date” unfolding.

Hmm, D felt self-protective, yet she wanted to come from a generous spirit.  Rising up she felt irritation and started down the thought pattern: she deserved better.

She called a friend to discuss this conflicting thinking.

On the call her lovely consultant mentioned arranging for a cake for his day, perhaps some small gifts. The friend got the sense that Christopher had some underlying poor feeling about this birthday which was behind the wanting to drink. Danna received these thoughts and realized these had not occurred to her. D’s thoughts had been thinking of and protecting herself.

“Oh” pondered D,” I enjoy offering gifts. I am a good listener. Maybe I can offer something valuable here.”

The Shift in Thinking

On purpose Danna realized her irritation and fear were a choice. “No,” she said, “I want to enjoy myself and these attitudes will color my perceptions of whatever unfolds. Let me start to look for what I can contribute. Let me trust myself more deeply to handle what shows up.

I will park my car close enough to our meeting place to drive myself where I need to go. I will not rely on Christopher’s sobriety to keep me safe.

The Open Sharing

On a phone call two days before the planned rendezvous, D shared with C more about how she felt. Danna said, “I don’t feel comfortable with the drinking four beers part. I don’t drink and I don’t spend time with people who drink to excess. I plan to situate my car so that I can leave when I need to go.” D did not usually talk about her inner feelings like this—she took a risk.

Chris had no idea that this heroine felt uncomfortable with his drinking plan. He assured her that she would not need to leave the date.

The Day Unfolded

Danna met Christopher easily at the appointed spot. The drinking focused restaurant Chris had chosen was not open during the afternoon. (Inwardly D cheered YAY.)

Danna then steered them to a place with an Asian food buffet. Chris had a culinary adventure and enjoyed it.

Then they went to a place featuring craft beer and he enjoyed two beers. D did not drink.

Then he wanted ice cream (she sat with him for that).

Summary

Danna looked for ways to enjoy this occasion and found them. She attracted a meal that was a treat for her. The day was temperate with sun and clouds: lovely. The events flowed easily, she chattered away.

After almost 4 hours she was tired and he walked her to her car.

D could have allowed self-protection to dominate. She could have felt “put upon” and martyred. She took a giving attitude, cooperative, kind and looking for fun.  Because she shifted, she enjoyed herself—and Christopher thanked her many times including a text the next morning. Win/win.

Please send stories of how you shifted and got pay offs. We love inspiration!

About the Author

Janet Pearlman is a spiritual teacher, counselor, healer and artist. These posts demonstrate everyday applications of the path to greater self knowledge and mastery. Opportunities for greater empowerment abound in the moments of our lives. As we all go for operating from a centered and loving space, we are creating a world where peace can prevail. In her forty-seven year journey of self-discovery, Janet has deeply studied the teachings of Abraham-Hicks, Ernest Holmes, Inayat Khan and more. Janet offers individual sessions by phone and in person. Please contact her at jpearl555@earthink.net to arrange an appointment.