Take the junk out of the closet. This is a scary sight. Spring cleaning has arrived. Holidays are approaching and family is coming into town.

I know there is a message in this process. At least I hope there is. Why do I do this yet again knowing that the junk will accumulate?

I decide that I don't need to answer that question right now. I remember the familiar twinges of shame as I look at what got shoved in that closet. Is this how I really lived my life? Old mail in in here. Things to "donate" to charity if I ever get around to it. The amazon packages with the holiday supplies.

I need this process to be meaningful or the resentment is going to be start. OK. Here goes.

Old mail needs to go in the in-basket on my desk. I respect my own time and take pride in fulfilling my responsibilities by taking care of this paperwork.

The items to donate go in my car and will be dropped off tomorrow at the thrift shop. I remind myself that charitable intentions are not worth that much if they just stay as quaint thoughts in my mind. Actually taking action is important to have the positive impact that I want in my community.

The Amazon packages get opened and sorted into the pantry and kitchen. I love my family and want their visit to my house to be comfortable and smooth. I can do this with time and effort to get ready for the visit.

I remember when I did spring cleaning decades ago and hated every minute. But time, life experience, and being open to new perspectives changed my life. My friends probably think that I am a walking self-help book. But as time goes on, I realize that life is short and the story is ours to write. Literally and figuratively.

I learned that my thoughts influence my words, my actions, and my values.

It is still a lifelong journey, even a struggle, to guide my thoughts in the right direction. But I do it one moment, one task, one decision, and one closet at a time.

What is the story of your thoughts? Where do they take you? What are you thinking about when you open that closet door?