(Friends: I shared this blog post is 2020 and even though I’ve updated it, these words still hold true in my life. May your heart find peace in this sharing — and in the coming year. With gratitude and blessings!)
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1.) Breathe. Deeply and often. It’s been a more-than challenging year in my life. The sale of our parents’ home, the death of my brother, a move to a new location. Be gentle with yourself. And others.
2.) Life can be hard. (See number one.) We can choose to learn from those lessons or struggle against them. Challenges can transform you, either way.
3.) People will disappoint you, but you can still love them and if you can’t do that, at least be kind to them.
4.) Quiet time is a blessing. I’m learning I need to revisit times of meditation and silence. Those spaces offer opportunities for deeper self-awareness, prayer, learning and growth.
5.) It’s OK to be where you are, emotionally, physically and spiritually. Self-acceptance and self-love are a journey. I’m still learning.
6.) Life is a tightrope walk. Keep your balance — care for and nurture yourself first, then others.
7.) Pay attention. Miracles are everywhere, from the first rays of sun in the morning to your breath. (See number one.)
8.) How much do I really need? As I grow older, I find material things don’t matter. I can do without many of them. What I do need is human connection — a big, warm hug, holding a hand, and the healing presence of another.
9,) Our parents aren’t with us forever. Love them now. Tell them you do. My parents are now gone. I told them I loved them many times. I wish I could say it one more time. I miss them.
10.) We only have now and the present moment. Life challenges have taught me life is brief. Make the most of now. Sing the song. Paint the painting. Write the book. Play. Laugh. Be silly.
11.) Forgive. Then forgive again. And again. Seventy times seventy. Yeah, it’s tough. Do it anyway.
12.) Life is a gift. Time is a gift. Use both with great love.
13.) Finally, my two words for 2024 are ALL IN. What does that mean? I’m ALL IN with God and with life. Nothing held back. Surrender and trust. Easy? Not at all. But if I’m not ALL IN — what then?
Many blessings for a Happy New Year, dear friends!
