The Key

There have been many times in my life when it seemed that everything I wanted was locked away somewhere just out of my reach. I did not know or understand how easy it might be to get to it.

Consumed with the stress and anxiety of life and family, I moved forward in the best way I knew how. Now I realize that it does not have to be so difficult.

For me it was as simple as being profoundly grateful for every single moment that I am alive. From the minute I wake until I close my eyes to sleep I thank the Universe for all the unbelievable blessings in my life.

That was it, that was the key that unlocked the door and everything I ever wanted in my life came pouring in.

Shangri La

Do you know Shangri La - that mystical earthly paradise described so beautifully in "Lost Horizon"? A place of peaceful beauty, where there is no struggle only harmony and joy.

Utopia can be found if we allow ourselves to release our fears and let the love in our hearts blossom. Just like the character in the novel, once we have experienced Shangri La we will do anything to return……

1 Year On...

I have been writing this blog for a year now, who would have known that I would have so much to say! There was a torrent of emotion in my head and my heart that was crying to be released.

This has been such a cathartic and liberating experience for me. To allow my deepest thoughts and feeling to be expressed – and to put it out there for the world to see. That was the biggest risk of all and I am so grateful that I did!

This is helping me to heal and grow in ways I never expected. Here’s to yet another year of letting my true voice be heard!

Grandparenthood

Since the birth of my grandson last year I have wondered why I was so surprised at the experience of being a grandmother. How could I be that unprepared for how I would feel?

But then I remember my own mother, a very strong and serious woman who melted into love and warmth when she was with her grandchildren. That should have told me how profound this experience might me.

Now I realize that no one can prepare you because there are no words to express the pure love and joy you feel when these precious gifts come into your life.

This Day

This day never fails to remind me of all that we have accomplished and how far we still have to go.

I was just a young girl when my family drove cautiously down the streets of Iowa as the protesters lined up on the sidewalks. Heavily armed with baseball bats, chains and knives, it was a terrifying sight.

I remember being very confused about why this was happening. When I looked at the people as we passed by I didn’t see color or any difference at all. They were all the same to me, every face was filled with fear.

My deepest prayer for this day and always is that people everywhere will hear Dr. King's beautiful message and know peace.

Rate of Change

The rate of change in my life has increased at a remarkable speed this past year; gaining a momentum and force that I couldn’t stop if I tried. That is saying a lot considering how quickly my life evolves. But to see it advance at this pace is truly astonishing!

What is even more interesting is that it is not because I am doing more or going faster but because I have slowed down and become more mindful of what truly matters to me.

These changes are creating a deeper more meaningful experience in my life.

Speak Softly

In the past, I have been very harsh and critical of myself. I didn't feel good enough or worthwhile and it hurt my heart.

Finally, I understand that I cannot ask of someone else what I am not willing to give to myself.

Now I know I must speak softly - because I am talking to my heart!

Life’s Adventure

When I was a little girl I loved to read about other people and faraway places. I was fascinated by all the wonderful things that existed and suddenly my world didn’t seem so small or bleak.

Like a little explorer I set out on an adventure, I wanted to discover as much as I could. Those stories gave me hope that I too could have a beautiful and wondrous life!

Relationships

Something I have come to understand about myself is that casual and superficial relationships don’t suit me. I can do that for short periods of time but it doesn’t hold my interest.

It is the experience of that deep, rich connection with someone I care about that is truly satisfying.

Life in Full Bloom

I’m not sure how it happens but my life just keeps getting better and better. Every new day, every new year is fuller and richer than the last. Just when I think it can’t be improved upon something else happens to enhance the beauty.

I have always known that I was a fortunate woman, not always with the best circumstances. But there is no question that this must have been the right path or I would never have ended up in this glorious place with my life in full bloom!