One of the best motivational movies I’ve seen in a VERY long time is with DeWitt Jones, a National Geographic photographer, called Celebrate What’s Right with the World. I can’t recommend this movie strongly enough. I’ve seen it over a dozen times and still find it heart- warming and inspiring. The photography is amazing and DeWitt’s quotes are so memorable. I use this movie regularly in my training programs on Appreciative Inquiry.
In one scene DeWitt has been assigned to take photographs of a field of dandelions and wasn’t excited to do it that day. He comes back a few days later and the dandelions had all turned into puff balls. He is about to leave and a little voice in him said, “Come on DeWitt, I know this isn’t how you planned it. But what’s here to celebrate?” He stays to take a bunch of photos and when he shifts his angle looking up at the sun, he captures a beautiful shot of a puff ball silhouetted in the sunlight.
I really like the phrase from the video “What’s here to Celebrate?” I have that question posted on my bulletin board by my desk and it’s helped me on more than one occasion. When I feel tired, overwhelmed, bored or worried, I stop and ask ‘what’s here to celebrate?’ I’m amazed at what I find within a short period of time that is worth celebrating or giving thanks. Some days it’s an unexpected phone call, other days it’s someone who’s got information I need. Frequently I find that if I shift my perspective just a little bit, as DeWitt does with his camera, I see the world from a different angle or through a different lens- more open, receptive, perhaps even hopeful. We all carry multiple lenses to see the world. Which lens do you use? hopeful, welcoming, joyful or cynical, angry, and skeptical.
As you plan or attend various celebrations this season, celebrate the small stuff too. What has gone right in your world recently? How do you celebrate the small things that are working in your life? During this time of Thanksgiving reflect on all the ways you are supported, guided, blessed or loved.
For the next week, take time each day to ask yourself – what’s here to celebrate? Then do something to celebrate, even if it’s giving yourself a pat on the back. Better yet, celebrate the accomplishments of someone in your office and you both will feel better.
Bright Blessings to you. Here’s a trailer to the movie – enjoy!
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGOMoLV0nxk[/youtube]
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For more resources, see our Library topic Spirituality in the Workplace.
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Linda is an author, speaker, coach, and consultant. Go to her website www.lindajferguson.com to read more about her work, view video clips of her talks, and find out more about her book “Path for Greatness: Spirituality at Work” available on Amazon.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GN-LgN19-Cc[/youtube]
Janae Bower of FindingIt is an inspirational speaker, award-winning author and training consultant who helps others get to the heart of what matters most.
Linda Ferguson wrote the book "Path for Greatness: Spirituality at Work" and has presented workshops around the country on aligning our gifts, passion and purpose.