Even though results are not in our control, we must have a plan. The mind needs an inspiring goal to work towards to keep it disciplined and channelised. A wandering mind without a purpose is destructive. The mind is our best friend and worst enemy.

Patient self application is the key. One day at a time , one task at a time. And yet we need to keep the larger picture in mind that we are working towards.

Just like an artist. The artist stays close to the canvas, each brush stroke deliberately applied. And after a few strokes, he steps back to see the entire picture and then once again homes in on the canvas. If he’s always with the canvas he won’t get a perspective and if he only stands at a distance, there will be no painting. We too must learn the art of zooming in and zooming out.

A few minutes of Quiet Time daily gives us the guidance for our actions. Going through the day with awareness and focus ensures we give our best. Spending a few minutes at the end of the day re-viewing not just what happened but also honestly re-viewing our emotions and motives gives us a perspective, not just of the world but our inner world as well. And when we cultivate the daily habit and discipline of focussed execution and objective evaluation, we start living each day with an enthusiasm and inspiration bringing out the best in us even when things don’t go our way.

Often we are in a hurry to reach our goal and tend to compromise and make mistakes. Or we get overawed with the situation and freeze, unable to move ahead. The setting sun gives us the rest we need and reminds us tomorrow is another day. It’s our daily discipline and dedication that takes ahead.

And just as the artist gives expression to his vision, one brush stroke at a time, we must paint our lives with the best we can offer life, one day at a time.