Notice something beautiful.... and other tips to stress less

I work with young people and families who are usually stressed, worried, anxious, overwhelmed etc. And sometimes I feel those things too, both in work and life. 

At my desk I have this postcard pinned to my wall- it is 10 helpful tips that are daily before my eyes and are a reminder that when we are stressed there are things we can do to feel less so. 

We all have the ability to make good choices. And whilst sometimes the source of our stress is out of our control, we always get to choose how we respond. 

Courtesy of the Mental Health Association NSW

Psalm 62: 5-8

"Yes, my soul, find rest in God;
   my hope comes from Him.
Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
   he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
My salvation and my honor depend on God;
   he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
Trust in him at all times, you people;
   pour out your hearts to him,
   for God is our refuge."

Pottery

Recently I started a pottery class. I had been wanting to join one for many years but never seemed to find the time while I was at uni. This year though, I have decided it's a matter of making time for the things I enjoy. An opportunity for respite from the busy-ness of life and a chance to cultivate creativity. 

I am yet to master working on the wheel, but I will persevere. I am told the trick is in centering, because if the clay in not centered it will wobble and be very difficult to work with. It will be off balance and ultimately won't be a solid vessel. 

My teacher makes centering look very easy, however from my first few attempts, it it much more difficult than it looks. Skilled potters are strong and gentle and are able to mold the clay into the vessel or object that they desire. 

I'm thankful that it is God who is the Potter in my life.  

"But now, O LORD,

You are our Father; 

We are the clay, and You our potter; 

And all we are the work of Your hand." Isaiah 64:8

      

a hand sculptured pear.

My favourite colour is teal or viridian which is one of the reasons why I love this image. The other reason is that it's a vintage Parisian Vogue cover from 1918 and it's just beautiful. 

A painting that I love.
Margaret Olley. Anemones 1963

One thing...

Words of King David which I hope to live also.

One thing I ask from the Lord,  
this only do I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord 
all the days of my life,
to gaze on the beauty of the Lord 
and to seek Him in His temple.
Psalm 27:4