If you are able to read this, you are someone who has responsibilities in life; things you have to do to keep your home-fires burning, body functioning, relationships tended, bank account above zero, etc. The more “mature” we become, the more our days seem filled with commitments and our decisions with considerations. Our lists of “have to’s” seem to get longer and longer.

What would it take to see the considerations, commitments, and responsibilities in our lives as our riches, blessings, and privileges? What can we do to remember our good fortune in having people and things to consider and tend as we move through our days? Sometimes we need to remind ourselves of our blessings. It can help to imagine losing or not having access to those things that can sometimes feel burdensome, and/or to remember that many people in our world do not have the gift of our choice-making or concerns.

Step One: Make a List of Responsibilities

Write down five things that you feel you have to do this week; things that are “responsibilities.”

Begin each statement with the words, “I have to…” For example: wash dishes, pay bills, buy groceries, go to bed early, take medicine, commute, call someone, go to work, take care of someone, etc.

Step Two: Reframe and Notice

Underneath the first list, write those same five things, but instead of the words “I have to,” begin each statement with the words: “I get to…”

How does it feel to think that you get to do something versus you have to do it? How does this impact the energy you bring to each item on your list?

Next, try adding this ending to each “I get to…” statement: “…when so many people cannot.” Attune to how this can awaken and strengthen a sense of good fortune, compassion, and gratefulness.

Step Three: Reflect

Throughout your day, notice how often you say or think the words, “I have to…” and try to catch yourself and substitute “I get to…” Try to also notice how much other people use this language. Experiment with beginning to see — and claim — your responsibilities and obligations as privileges and opportunities.

  • How might awareness of your privileges — and the fact that so many people don’t share them — move you to act?

Perspective
Practices