In Search of…Sunday – Blogosphere and Beyond

When I stumble across the path of a fellow blogger who’s site I relate to, it’s like uncovering a hidden Easter egg during a hunt.  There are so many good writers out there with useful, interesting, entertaining things to say, aren’t there?   I think Sundays are perfect for sharing some of the sites and/or posts that I’ve found interesting this week. 

I really love and admire Operation Beautiful.  This site is just plain inspiring.  Caitlin who is the editor of Operation Beautiful writes,

I began Operation Beautiful by leaving positive messages on the mirrors of public restrooms — at work, at the gym, at the grocery store.  I scribble down whatever comes to mind — "You are beautiful!" or "You are amazing just the way you are!"  My personal goal is to leave as many Operation Beautiful notes as I can. Maybe some people read them and just smile, but I bet some people are truly touched by the effort of a random stranger.

What I like about this site is that it encourages women to build each other up which is something we all should aspire to do (there are enough things in life keeping us down, no?)  But it isn’t just for women.  Men have insecurities too and need to be reminded that they are also good enough just the way they are.  Believe me, anyone can benefit from words of encouragement and that is exactly what this site is about. 

Also, I love reading Alan’s blog and came across a post that I especially related to and I’m sure some of you have, too.  He has been challenging himself to step outside his comfort zone by trying new things.  I don’t know about you, but that is an area that I REALLY, really struggle with.  Alan stepped up though, and went to a yoga class!  He writes:

When I walked in there were a few people already setup and stretching getting ready for class to begin. I grabbed a yoga mat and found a nice roomy place near the far end of the studio, not quite on the back row but the row right before it. As it got closer to 7 the room starting filling up and I wont lie I felt like people were staring at me like I didn’t belong there.

When I read that, I knew exactly how he felt.  No one likes feeling that way; unfortunately, allowing that feeling to control us also deprives us of new experiences.  I was so glad when Alan finished his post with this:

…So like I said at 15 min into the class I was wondering what I had gotten myself into but I knew I wasn’t going to quit. It was an hour class and I made myself understand that I was going to be there for the whole hour, NO EXCUSES. We did a bunch of other poses and to be honest I don’t remember most of the names, I was just trying to concentrate on my breathing and my balance. Oh we did do something called a spinal twist I believe, those feel GOOD!

….So I can finally scratch yoga from my list of things I want to try. It was a great experience and I can see why people love it. Will I try it again??……  ABSOLUTELY!  I plan on fitting it in to my weekly routine and I cant wait until my next class.

Alan, congratulations on that first step, and I’m glad you enjoyed yoga!   I too have recently stepped outside my comfort zone and done something I’ve been putting off: I signed up for a class!  I’ll let you all know what I’m taking and how it’s going on Friday.

By the way, you can read Alan’s entire post here.  He is also offering folks to sign up with him for a challenge: no eating out for 30 days.  If you’d like to join, head over to his site and let him know!

Have a relaxing Sunday, everyone!