What does it mean to function well in life? What does it mean to have good mental health? It means we exhibit the following traits:

1. Feeling good about ourselves; accepting that we have both strengths and weaknesses. Understanding that change takes time, and being patient with ourselves.
2. Being able to effectively manage our emotions so we’re not controlled or overwhelmed by them (Feelings of anxiety, fear, anger, rage, bitterness, hatred, jealousy, and so on).
3. Being able to form and enjoy stable, healthy, boundaried and meaningful relationships.
4. Feeling at ease in the company of others.
5. Not taking life too seriously; being able to laugh at ourselves.
6. Respecting ourself, our values, beliefs, attitudes, choices and decisions. Also, respecting others and their right to think, choose, decide and act for themselves.
7. Being able to accept, and to cope with, disappointment. This includes being able to adapt and compromise when this is healthy and…

Photography is mixing the colors of summer.

The other day a lovely person asked me a question in regards to surrendering. She asked if I actually say the words “I surrender.”

I thought this was a great question and it prompted me to take a look at what it actually means to me.

You hear ALL THE TIME in recovery – “Let it go!” “Turn it over!” “Surrender it!” “Give it to God.”

I explained that I do not say the actual words “I surrender.”

For me all it is…is the awareness in the moment that I am trying to control the uncontrollable. How do I know I am doing that….my physical body and mind tell me so. I feel angst and stress about whatever the situation is I am trying to control.

When I have had enough stress and angst in my body…I let the thing go. How do I do that….I switch my focus…