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Heartwings Love Notes 760 How to Grow your Heart Bigger

Heartwings says, "When we grow our hearts they can hold more love."

Most are familiar with a character of Dr. Seuss’s called the Grinch. His heart was too small by far. This resulted in his acting meanly toward others and trying to take away their joy because it annoyed him. When he couldn't, his heart grew. Most of us believe we would never try to steal another's joy, however perhaps we could be ignoring opportunities to grow our hearts bigger. This is something I had to learn and I worked hard to learn it. It’s not easy to do so; the first step is to observe one’s very own smallness of heart.

For example, when I look at someone or even myself with a critical eye, observe with distaste my or another’s extra pounds or ill fitting clothing, or think negatively of my or another’s behavior and don't catch myself doing it, I am missing an opportunity to grow my heart. I could change my thinking and reflect that they could be on medication, indigent, ill or feeling uncomfortable and instead feel compassion for them or myself. I'm aware that when I am tired or someone annoys or irritates me, it takes restraint not to snap back. Yet when I can manage to see them in a different light, it will grow my heart.

Another way to grow my heart is to not act selfishly and take the biggest or the best or the most for myself. Being generous to others is a simple way for me to grow my heart larger. As children we are often taught this by well meaning parents, yet depending on how I might be feeling, it is easy to do the opposite. Then too, if I do it grudgingly or without a genuine desire to give, it may not be as effective for heart enlargement, however it can still work to my benefit. The best attitude is to put others ahead of oneself with joyful willingness as opposed to grudging obligation.

While it is sometimes painful to observe myself behaving in ways other than how I want to see myself, it is also worth doing. I've learned that if I catch myself in the act often enough, I will stop whatever negative behavior I observe. Selfish behavior, a judgmental attitude, an outlook automatically critical of others can lead to shrinkage of the heart. Generosity, compassion, and loving giving can lead to the growth of the heart. Plus there is often a return on one's investment. What goes around really does come around. Those who practice these virtues may well reap good fortune in some way in return. While this is not a reason to be doing it, it is a nice side benefit.

May you find ways to grow your heart and enjoy the process.
 

I love to hear from readers and would be honored if you would comment and let me know any suggestions or thoughts. If a friend sent you this, you can sign up at my web site, www.heartwingslovenotes.com, where more love notes can be found in the archives.

Blessings and Best Regards,
Tasha Halpert
 

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