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Simple Words with Great Power

  • Writer: Michael Shaw
    Michael Shaw
  • 7 days ago
  • 1 min read

Updated: 6 days ago

Short poem titled “Simple Words with Great Power,” illustrated and displayed over a bright yellow mandala pattern. The poem encourages repeating the simple affirmation, “I’m glad to be alive, I’m content with my lot,” as a daily mantra and prayer. In the lower right corner, a man sits upright in bed, symbolizing the beginning of a mindful day.

Reflections

This short poem centers on two phrases that are simple and powerful—but embracing them wholeheartedly isn’t always easy: I’m glad to be alive, I’m content with my lot. These lines invite us to practice radical acceptance—not by denying our daily struggles, but by shifting our focus toward what we can control: our outlook on life and our sense of gratitude.


The poem offers these words as both mantra and prayer, encouraging us to weave them into our daily routine. Even when we struggle to believe them fully, repeating affirmations can help reshape our perspective. Over time, what we say to ourselves influences how we see ourselves, others, and the world.


In the final lines, the poem suggests the result of changing our focus: Simple words with great power— / Out of darkness bring light. In moments when the world seems dark—such words, if deeply embedded in our minds, can help us reframe our thoughts. Spoken often, they bring light where it’s most needed.


What we say to ourselves matters.


Affirmation

I'm glad to be alive. I'm content with my lot.

 

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2 Comments


Believer
6 days ago

Michael, this sweet poem reminds me of a beautiful hymn, "It is well with my soul." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/It_Is_Well_with_My_Soul The author was "glad to be alive and content with his lot," despite unimaginable life circumstances. Your mantra and prayer is perfect in every circumstance. ❤️

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Michael Shaw
6 days ago
Replying to

Thank you for this beautiful comment. Using the link you shared, I read the story of the man who wrote the hymn you referenced and it is remarkable.

It isn’t surprising you see a connection between the poem and the hymn. The underlying concept of the poem is very spiritual and not easy to uphold: No matter what, we are obligated to see good in our lives and in the world. ❤️🌹🌎

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