So, I was in Australia with Oprah … (Sorry, but those words never fail to make me happy!)
It was our first night in Sydney, and we had already received a royal and moving welcome at our luxury hotel, enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic Sydney Opera House complete with a private concert by a renowned diva, learned we were heading to the Great Barrier Reef the next day, and cruised across the magnificent Sydney Harbour.
We were now at the Taronga Zoo, where we had just taken photos with – be still, my heart – koalas. We were indulging in a sumptuous dinner, surrounded by scenery we had only seen in movies, and our hearts were as full as our bellies.
“It doesn’t get better than this,” said my friend, Susan, happily.
I smiled, speechless with bliss, but the woman on her other side practically jumped out of her seat.
She turned her head until they were face to face. “You never say, ‘It doesn’t get better than this,’” she told her. “You ask, ‘How can it get better than this?’” and then you let the universe show you.”
I got goosebumps.
“Oh, my God, I love that,” I cried, bursting back to life and reeling with the truth of what she had just said.
As a writer, I obviously believe in the impact of words. I’ve also experienced firsthand the power of putting your wishes out there. It’s how I got to Australia with Oprah in the first place.
Susan, newly-enlightened, nodded and repeated, “How can it get better than this?”
For the next eight days of that amazing trip, the universe showed us.
I am so grateful for that advice. It’s literally changed my life.
Since that evening, I always make a conscious effort to shape my thoughts with a positive spin.
And you know what?
It just keeps getting better and better.
I love that! I’m going to remember it, especially when things aren’t their best.
That is a wonderful thing to remember—always. Thanks for sharing. And how awesome that you can say those words “when I was in Australia with Oprah”. 🙂 Thanks for a great thing to ponder today!
What a great spin on that cliche: Yes, how CAN it get better than this?! A great outlook on life that is bound to pay great dividends. Thanks for passing it on.
Love this! I’m continually telling my daughters “Words matter!” Using the right word at the right time makes all the difference… especially when it comes to striving for making things better, more positive.
Yes! Definitely GREAT advice and something that reminds me of what I call “NEXTing!” Thanks for sharing this! ~Kathy
That’s a great line, Lois! I’m going to try saying that next time. Thanks for sharing!
Love this! It’s right in line with, “NO .. this ISN’T a once in a lifetime trip!” 🙂
Lois, as a proud Aussie, I am ecstatic that you loved our beautiful country and made you remark “How can it get better than this?’” That is precisely how I feel when I am travelling to a new and exciting country. I remember feeling that euphoria when I first went to New York. We really do need to live for the moment and take in all the beauty that surrounds us.
I too believe in the power of words. That’s a simple but powerful change. I’ll remember it.
I think this is a wonder piece of advice. We have always said “It just keeps getting better and better!” The universe listens and keeps the surprises and joy coming. Enjoy!
Barbara
Oh Lois, how wonderful! What a change on outlook by a simple change of a statement. Thanks for sharing. Virginia- FirstClassWoman
Love it! I’m going to try to remember this one.