59. Take regular time for self-reflection.

Whether you are working or retired, we all live in a fairly high-speed world. Driving in the city is a non-stop stressor, malls and stores are generally busy and buzzing, and even our TV programming is not designed to be relaxing. Invariably, you will hear friends and families lament that they have been busy. Even laid-back retirees often admit that they don't know where their day went, as they work through their to-do lists. More than ever, it is important for us all to take a time-out where we can retreat for some quiet and reflection. 

In a lot of instances, we have developed rooms in our homes that we call offices, or man caves, or quiet zones. I have been blessed with a wonderful 20th floor 100 sqft. area at the south end of our condo that is surrounded by glass and overlooks that river, the hillside and a riverside park. It was almost as if the building was purposely constructed for just such a reflection space. I know that I use this wonderful quiet observatory every day for reading, relaxation and reflection. It is also reminiscent of a fourth-floor extended outdoor balcony that we enjoyed when we lived in Istanbul that overlooked our small village and looked  outward toward the Bosphorus Strait. It was a magical retreat from the hustle of a city of 16 million people.

A special room is not necessary for reflection of course, but it does help. My second favourite reflection spot is anywhere outdoors, preferably in a park and near water. Again, I have been doubly blessed to live on the banks of the Bow River and a five-minute stroll from Edworthy Park with its miles of pathways, wilderness and conveniently situated benches. I have one special bench that I often retreat to and try to examine my life, while at the same time feeding the small birds sunflower seeds from my hand. It is a most wonderful sanctuary - near home, with its quiet only disturbed by the call of the birds, the gurgling sound of the river, or the laughter of children playing. 

As a last resort, we can always withdraw into our minds anytime we choose. No matter the location, it is very important to be able to find a place to reflect, celebrate and give thanks for our many blessings.