Less Wise After Today...

[Estefania--- Youth Ambassador]

My parents surprised me with a trip to the dentist to  get my wisdom teeth removed! I seriously had no idea this was going to happen until 20 minutes before the procedure... Unfortunate!

I had four teeth taken out, it was sort of ridiculous! But the entire time, I couldn't help thinking about how thankful I am for you guys and 29 Gifts in general (even though I don't really get an opportunity to post anymore). 

Every day I'm reaping the benefits of giving, and every day I have to remind myself that all the good stuff didn't happen out of nowhere...

The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance, the wise grows it under his feet. -James Oppenheim

Ever since I started "growing happiness under my feet," everything has been so much better. It's funny, because today when my teeth were getting mercilessly drilled by the dentist and my mouth and lips were constantly in place, all I could think about was thoughts, and how controlling them made all the difference. Instead of the pain, I thought about where thoughts come from. I asked myself why I couldn't feel thoughts in my arms or my feet; why I can't move my ears or raise my eyebrows in a comedic way, but then I realized that too takes practice, so I started thinking long and hard about where my thoughts occurred. 

The great part about thinking about thoughts was that it was all-consuming. I forgot that my mouth was being excavated and probed; made better by hurting it more.

 It's funny how everything in life comes down to a few simple ideas; how a couple silly anecdotes about getting wisdom teeth removed end up becoming all-inclusive metaphors for life and all its possibilities. 

Hope you've all been well, my friends.

I hope to hear you've been well!

Much love,

Estefania 

[Ann]

You continuously astound and inspire me!  This is a beautiful post and next week when I am at the dentist getting some much neded (but dreaded) work done, I will try to follow your wonderful example.  I hope you are feeling better and that all is well with you.

[911dispatcher]

Been there done that...I hope you get to feeling better soon!

[Deb~ Community Manager]

Take care my friend. You have so much going on but always manage to make the best of it.

[Lois55 wwt]

My admiration continues to grow...I don't think I would have gone that way in my thoughts!Take care of yourself as you heal. You'll need a little downtime. It was wonderful to hear from you...Hugs, Little Lady......

[Anita Silva]

Wow, four teeth taken out in one session! Great the way you dealt with it! 

[Marina Wildt]

Well, a lot like you a thoroughly dislike the dentist and next time I have to go I will try distract myself the way you did. Good that you took a unwelcoming experience and made the most of it!