Years ago, I fell in love with a book called A Complaint Free World. Minister Will Bowen came up with an idea that would change his life—and the lives of millions. He challenged himself and his congregation to be complaint-free for 21 days: no griping, no moaning, no criticizing and no gossiping! 

The Complaint Free movement was based on simple concepts: Your thoughts create your life, and your words indicate what you’re thinking. If you can change your words, your thoughts will change, too, and eventually, so will your life. 

Bowen’s challenge used a simple rubber bracelet worn to remind congregants not to complain. Every time someone caught themselves complaining, they would have to move the bracelet to the alternate wrist and start their challenge over again. Although I had to switch the wristband for months before I reached 21 complaint-free days, my commitment to eradicate this toxic way of life paid off and led to a significant upsurge in happiness. 

Today, the wisdom and awakenings inspired by other enlightened teachers, books and life experiences help me stay rooted in a state of deep gratitude, understanding that everything that life presents me is a gift. 

Although I may not embrace every experience with open arms, a willingness to attune myself to whatever comes my way continues to deepen my trust in a friendly Universe and to more quickly accept what is. In this state, my happier heart is open to give and receive. 

As we welcome the holiday season, still living with an uninvited guest—this pandemic that has turned our lives upside-down—I invite you to take the Complaint Free challenge and to discover the gifts that are present in every moment. Be that point of light in your mini-universe and shine your bright light everywhere you go, no matter who won the election and what the media says! 

Here’s to spreading peace and love,

Sharon Bruckman 

“Everything is a gift. The degree to which we are awake to this truth is a measure of our gratefulness, and gratefulness is a measure of our aliveness.” ~Brother David Steindl-Rast