Pay attention

A few weeks ago, I was reading a fashion magazine and stumbled upon a brief yet poignant question “What advice would you give your younger self?”

Hmmm. I’m not always a reflective person, but this question seemed to draw me in. I found that other publications have asked the same question. Responses have included advice about letting go of expectations, receiving compliments, knowing one’s worth, thinking and acting on passions, finances, grace (that one surprised me), education and eating habits.

Here’s my advice – in two words – that I came up with for my younger self: pay attention! Pay attention to everything around you and within you, pay attention to the people in your life and what they bring to your moments, pay attention to the voice within (listen!), pay attention to God’s amazing nature and how it affects your life and the lives of others.

How about you? What advice would you give? Are you heeding that advice today? In the days ahead I hope you move forward to live into the wisdom you would share with your younger self.

This message is adapted from “A Younger Self” written by Syd Brinkman for the Women of the ELCA blog on February 6, 2014.