Starting The Day Light: Choosing Peace Over Worry—#270

This morning, I scrolled down to @ladiesofhive community and found this introspective prompts by @sacra97. I immediately entered into a deep self- reflection on how to approach each of them. The questions are very intrusive, so to speak.

The first prompt:

Life is truly too short to be weighed down by excessive worries, and that understanding shapes how I like to start my mornings. I actually begin my day slowly, allowing myself a few quiet moments before the noise of responsibilities takes over. Mornings, to me, are sacred—they set the tone for everything that follows. So, I make my mornings count by having a positive mindset. I like to wake up with gratitude, simply acknowledging the miraculous gift of being alive for my kids, my husband, and for myself, and given another chance to try again.

Rather than rushing, I take time to breath deeply, stretch a little to enjoy the peace and serenity early morning brings. Oh! How I love peace and quiet! Mornings are actually my best time of the day; they help me embrace my consciousness, arrange my thoughts in prayer, and clear my mind of yesterday's troubles. I know that worry steals energy, so I consciously choose calm thoughts, which I often practice in a short prayer. Other times, I linger longer in prayer, and when I'm done, I experience a sudden peace of mind and inner joy. Mornings are a time of silent reflection for me; other times, I listen to soft music and motivational speeches on the radio that remind me to take life one step at a time.

And of course, I don't joke about my early morning liquid—water helps to clear my mind and keep it sharp, just like I'm doing now.

Starting my morning this way helps me focus on what I can control and release what I cannot. When I begin the day with peace, I am more patient, more hopeful, and more open to joy. Life may be short, but mornings remind me that each day is a fresh start worth embracing with calmness of mind.

NOW THE SECOND PROMPT:

Small Joys, Loud Laughter: What Keeps Me Smiling.

Laughter plays an important role in my life. Oftentimes, my deepest laughter comes from the simplest and most unexpected things and moments. I laugh when I observe everyday life—my children and other children being curious, playful conversations, and the innocent honesty that people sometimes express without realizing how funny it sounds.These moment remind me not to take life too seriously and to just let out laughter as though there won't be another tomorrow.

I also find laughter in shared experiences: jokes with my husband, old memories of friends, and stories told repeatedly that never lose their charm, ranging from real life experiences, television series, cartoon channels, and the like. Sometimes, laughter comes from my own personal mistakes— learning to laugh at myself has helped me grow and stay humble. Life isn't perfect, and humor makes imperfections easier to accept.

Creative expressions make me laugh too—funny stories, lighthearted writing, and gentle humor that doesn't hurt anyone. I appreciate laughter that heals rather than mocks. Even quiet smiles count, especially on difficult days when a full laugh feels too heavy.

Ultimately, laughter keeps my heart light. It connects me to others, relieves stress, and reminds me that joy doesn't always come from big events. Often, it lives quietly in small moments, waiting for us to notice and allow ourselves to laugh freely.

This is my response to the @ladiesofhive community contest—Round 270.

Thank you @sacra97 for the reflective prompts.

SEE YOU SOON WITH YET ANOTHER REFLECTION AND EXPERIENCES.