Even as I knew I was going to write this blog, I hesitated. Announcing to the world that “I enjoy being enjoyed,” feels both liberating and egotistical. The fact that it is my truth is the reason that I am writing it anyway.
Earlier this week, I was working with some of the exercises from my book (I read through and work with the materials in my book quite often to keep me on track and, sometimes, to get me back on track). In doing the work, this statement flew from my brain through my hand onto a piece of paper. The questioning I was actively engaged in was directed toward my outer purpose (inner purpose remains constant, but outer purpose can change quite dramatically in a lifetime). After looking at the many things in which I participate (most are communication oriented), the simple statement, “I enjoy being enjoyed,” popped out. I thought about this statement as I smiled, realizing that this must be the truth for a great many people. Whether we are talking about friends, family, lovers, business associates, animals, children, or strangers, I think most of us enjoy being enjoyed. It is the simple act of appreciation. When we appreciate something it grows in value. When people enjoy us, we feel appreciated and we can feel our intrinsic value more immediately. The people around us act as a reflection for us. Enjoyment of another person, appreciation in its most simple essence, is a reflection of our ability to be “in joy.” So, now the secret is out: I ENJOY BEING ENJOYED!
What does this mean in my day-to-day life? It means that the intention in each day, in each moment, is simply to appreciate everything around me — the people, nature, situations, buildings, classes, work, changes (a challenging one). The alternative, being unappreciative of the world around me and of my place in this world, would only bring a sense of melancholy, frustration, and angst. I think I’ll stick with the enjoyment as best I can.
I hope you enjoyed this post. If so, let me know. After all, in case you didn’t get it, I ENJOY BEING ENJOYED!
Unabashedly, ridiculously grateful,
Mark
Mark Edgar Stephens' Inspiration Blog 
April 29, 2011 at 5:53 pm |
Nodding, laughing, agreeing, ENJOYING this post as I read it! Sure do appreciate you, your book, your message to the world! Also can admit, I enjoy being enjoyed as well. It is so cool when another recognizes anything about you, or that you have done. And yes, yes, YES grateful and appreciative of all around me, even the “not so good stuff”, for it is possible to turn anything into a positive blessing, thereby rearranging mood, perception and potential in any situation. I hope you get MUCH enjoyment and that many people enjoy letting you know they enjoy you! Fun post! Love it!!! KUDOS!!! Still grinning, Jan