Too Blessed to be Depressed

I adore days like this. Days when my motivation level is at a maximum, my energy level is through the roof (granted, with the help of a little coffee), my mind is clear of all worries and anxiety, and I have an overwhelming sense of peace and joy knowing that my treasure is in Heaven...but that I have so many blessings to enjoy here on Earth as well! Couldn't every day be like this?

Brian and I made our way to Mirka's this morning for what was the most difficult yoga session to date. The third time Mirka instructed us to go into Adho Mukha Svanasana (a.k.a. "downward-facing dog") and to hold it for five minutes (literally), I finally looked at her husband Michael and stated, "I feel like she's punishing us all for something you did to her!" In his typical dry, English way he said, "Yes, perhaps it was that breakfast in bed that really upset her."

Despite the "torture" of a very vigorous yoga session, I came home feeling unbelievably refreshed. I took a few minutes to relax on our chaise lounge with Chiefy while we watched the sun's rays evaporate the puddles of morning rain into steam. I have developed a new appreciation for the sun, and I take every opportunity to soak it up.

After a quick bite of lunch, I retreated to my office to prepare for my upcoming presentation in Barnstable on Thursday. I'm delivering a motivational speech to university faculty and staff on how to motivate students. Of all the topics I present, motivation is one of my absolute favorites - perhaps it is because I require so much of it just to function every day! Since being diagnosed with depression back in 2002, I have found myself increasingly interested in learning how to harmonize the principles of theology with those of psychology. Does motivation come from the Lord? If so, why are there so many "motivated" non-Christians? Can prayer and praise move me beyond a depressive state? How can I use my faith to motivate me to improve the quality of my spiritual life, my body, my relationships, my work ethic, etc.?

These thoughts interest me so much that I've collaborated on a book project with several other authors I met at a conference in California last year. The book is entitled Multiple Streams of Motivation:  How Motivation Can Change Your Life. This book will be available in February, so stay tuned for more on that next month!

Before I close I would like to share a bit of British culture with you. I've been reading a book entitled Watching the English:  The Hidden Rules of English Behaviour by social anthropologist Kate Fox. True to the English way, it is an incredibly dry, witty, but scientifically accurate account of this unique and fascinating culture.

The first chapter fittingly begins with a discussion of weather. There is nothing in this world more English than a conversation about the weather. However, there are certain rules to discussing the weather with the English that I believe everyone reading this blog would benefit from understanding. Here is a quote from Kate Fox on this English "ritual."

The English have clearly chosen a highly appropriate aspect of our own familiar natural world as a social facilitator:  the capricious and erratic nature of our weather ensures that there is always something new to comment on, be surprised by, speculate about, moan about, or, perhaps most importantly, agree about. Which brings us to another important rule of English weather-speak:  always agree. ...Weather-speak greetings or openers such as 'Cold, isn't it?' must be reciprocated, but etiquette also requires that the response express agreement, as in 'Yes, isn't it?' or 'Mmm, very cold'. Failure to agree in this manner is a serious breach of etiquette. When the priest says, 'Lord, have mercy upon us', you do not respond, 'Well, actually, why should he?' You intone, dutifully, 'Christ, have mercy upon us'.

If you're in the mood for an intellectual read that is also hilarious, pick up this book!

In closing, I'll leave you with an editorial Brian forwarded me this morning. Apparently, while I'm upstairs diligently working on tapping into motivational resources, Brian is downstairs trying to find reasons to be depressed. So, in addition to motivating the scholars and professionals of the UK, perhaps my services are needed in my own household.

For your reading displeasure: "The Most Depressing Day Ever?"

Comments

[Genii]

hey lovely, it is good to be motivated. But in my eyes, you are always so up-coming about everything. I adore your life, sounds a good proportion of everything in life to keep you fulfilled, a bit pressure, worries, a lot to give and enjoy. That's some experience I love to have and hardly had coz my life components is so different, too much work and worries of issues. that's why I hope one day when I am sitting in my Chinese home chair I can feel nothing but only sooth and a light tomorrow. hope see you soon in London, let me know if you're about coming sometime!!!!!love a lot xxxxx

[Katy]

Let's make a deal, Genii. Next time you're feeling the pressure of your living situation or work or the hustle and bustle of London, come out here to the country and stay with us again. Don't wait to get back to China to relax!!! You've got your very own retreat in Suffolk any time you'd like to visit. We'll even take you to the commissary again so you can stock up on Oreos and Twinkies. :-) Nothing beats the London stress like processed sponge cake filled with pure sugar.

We miss seeing you! Let's not let 2 1/2 more years go by before we realize we didn't spend enough time together.

I love you, my precious friend!

xx