An Island

        What do you think of when you think of an island? The beauty of the ocean or lagoon, the trees, the wildlife, the beaches, the unexplored regions, the mystery - the peace? We don't think of islands much unless we're planning a trip. It is usually a place we go to for a vacation to get away from it all. It does help to have different surroundings, new sights and sounds, but we eventually have to come back to "real" life. Some people can afford an island life or they are born to it, but for most of us, it is outside our reach.

        The world is so crowded in many places. Houses and buildings are jammed together, offices are full of people as well as apartment buildings. It sometimes appears that our open space is becoming smaller and smaller. We do our best to balance this situation with 'green belts' or parks, trees, flowers and landscaped areas, but it doesn't seem to fit our picture of the island we'd like to visit.

        The island often represents a change of pace. It's a time to slow down, relax, think, or not think, and calm our way of living. Too often there are not enough financial resources to take an island trip so how do we include that wonderful island feeling in our lives? Mental attitude has to be the foundation. There has to be intent to create a space. We can draw mental pictures with our mind and change the environment at will. We create all the time, we just aren't aware of it. Of course you have to have a little quiet space if you can find it or create it in your mind just before you go to sleep. Mentally draw an island of your own. Place it where you want and create the foliage that will give you a sense of it being as you would like to see it. Add the birds for song, and the flowers for beauty. Create your living space. You may want to "rough it" outside with beach living or hut or perhaps you want a more modern type home sheltered among the trees. Create your sunrises and your sunsets. When you have finished your island, the next time you are rushed or stressed or nervous, simply close your eyes for a few moments and step foot on your island. Perhaps you want to take a swim in the ocean. Perhaps you want to play with the dolphins, or perhaps you just want to be there. As you make your trips to your island, you may be surprised to find that when you get there something may be different. You see, your subconscious likes to create too. Perhaps you'll find a path to explore. Remember, this is your place, your shelter. Even a few moments there will make a different in your physical being, and most importantly, your mental health. They do not have to be long trips. You can come and go as you like. Everyone needs a safe place. Make your island your haven.