Seeing Perfection

The word perfect is described in the dictionary as flawless, complete, whole… Being aware of perfection and having the intent to hold perfection in our lives is a powerful tool.
Often we think of "being perfect" as something rigid and out of reach. If so, perhaps it's time to shift our perceptions.

Happiness does not depend on outward things, but on the way we see them.
Leo Tolstoy

Do we hold a vision of perfection in our life? Taking in an exquisite sunset, gazing at the ocean waves, smelling pine trees in a forest, gives us a feeling or sense of perfection and beauty. We can experience perfection when we watch a child laugh and play, or as we complete an exciting project we worked on.

Yet there are many times when perfection seems like a far off dream; something we can't quite grasp. We become caught up in the struggle of a situation, or frustrated because someone else doesn't seem to live up to our expectations.
We may criticize our self because we are not attractive enough, funny enough, bright enough, or as resourceful as we think we should be.

Here are five ways we can experience perfection. Each path may be used in different situations. It is up to you to decide what works for you. For some of you, the following ideas may provide inspiration or a new perspective. For others, these suggestions may simply act as a reminder to incorporate in your daily life.

1. Accept "what is" at the moment. This philosophy is definitely Eastern and has been embraced in recent years within the Western culture. By accepting what is, we allow things to flow naturally. We don't "force" anything or anyone to change. We benefit by remaining relaxed, at peace and open to the manner in which events transform. We create space for others to act or to react. We also allow for our own humanness. If we are feeling sad, frustrated, or resistant, for example, we can be in the moment acknowledging our feelings, and knowing that whatever we are feeling is ok.
2. Accept others in the moment. How often do we judge others? Probably more than we care to realize… Do we often wonder why someone doesn't do things the way we do them? Do we get angry at the way other people drive-but we think we don't make mistakes? Do we think someone else is wrong in their perception or their solution to a problem? By making a concerted effort to accept others, we allow them to be themselves and to fully express themselves. Accepting others doesn't necessarily mean we have to change our way of looking at things. It does mean being open and acknowledging the other person. We respect them, and we value their ideas and special gifts.
3. Ask: "What can I learn from this situation or person?" Can you remember a time when a situation seemed dark and gloomy and later it was resolved? Do you recall what you gained from that situation-such as increased patience, compassion, greater intimacy, or perhaps a new skill? When something is a struggle in your life, ask yourself this question and see what thought or inspiration comes up spontaneously.
4. Begin the day by stating your intentions. For example you can affirm, mentally or verbally: 1. I am centered, peaceful, and joyful no matter what occurs during my day. 2. I am a center of love and radiance. 3. I radiate love and joy to others as well! These affirmations all contribute to helping each of us set the energy and emotional mood for the day. Our energy and emotions also affect others, either consciously or subconsciously. By setting our intentions, and by encouraging others with uplifting words and support, we are contributing to creating a more harmonious world.
5. Send positive messages to others. You can either mentally or verbally uplift others. When you tell someone how much you appreciate them or their efforts, notice their mood or energy shift. They may smile more. You may provide them with a burst of energy or motivation to complete a project. As you see perfection in others, you lift them to greater heights of confidence and accomplishment.

Recently I lead a series of teleclasses called Finding Your Soulmate. Shortly after the last class, Jaime began to tell me about the Soulmate she had met.

They share similar interests. They are attracted to each other on many different levels. They communicate easily and have so much fun together. What surprised Jaime was the perfection she saw in her partner. She added, "It doesn't matter if he is a little messy with picking up his clothes. It's ok if he spends some time with his male friends because I trust him, and we both enjoy spending time together. Remember how worried I was about not being everything my potential mate would desire? Well, he thinks I am perfect too!"

MONTHLY AFFIRMATION:

"I am fully present in the moment, as I see perfection and wholeness everywhere."

MONTHLY LIFE TECHNIQUE:

I am consciously aware each day of my perceptions and feelings, while experiencing circumstances and interactions with people in my life. I choose one of the five tools to keep me clear, focused and at peace.
www.marciehunt.com

Copyright for this article by Marcie Hunt, 2006, 2007. If you would like permission to use this article, please email marcie at: marcie@marciehunt.com
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