Growth & Gratitude

As I leave the ice, snow and cold of the province where I was born to return to the beautiful rainforest where I now live, I take time to pause and think. Last year was definitely a year full of shifts for me and many of them were pretty unexpected! I have had everything from the joys of watching my youngest graduate to transitioning into my new life as an empty nester and a whole bunch of wild stuff in between. The trials and tribulations we live through are opportunities for learning and growth if we can find the time to process. It’s hard; but worth it, to make the time. In the end, we don’t need a lot of time…some dedicated moments will do the trick.

These tough experiences can teach us so much if we sit back and listen (two things that are very tough for me to do!). I learned the importance of forgiveness when my family was treated unfairly or misjudged. I finally choose not to stew in anger and bitterness. I haven’t totally forgiven everyone I need to…there are a few really tough ones that I am still working on. The main thing is that I continue to work on it. I also learned that, I can trust that my children have learned good values…I have no choice now…but it’s nice to see that I can. I learned that the truth will always come out when it is time and that this timing and how it comes out is usually nothing remotely close to what I anticipate. I learned that I am lucky to be part of wonderful teams of people who work together to pull off amazing accomplishments. Finally, I learned that I can literally live through months of my house being is the disarray that comes with a big renovation…something that was definitely outside of my comfort zone!

From all of this growth and learning, I look back with gratitude for all that I have. I survived a real tough advocacy role that I held for years. More importantly, the person I was advocating for survived and is now thriving! I am grateful that I am getting better at setting boundaries and articulating clearly,  but kindly what I need. I recognize the gift of daily phone calls from my children and the lovely new relationship we are building as they grow into adults. I am privileged to be asked to share my passion in several different forums. I also appreciate special time with my beautiful friends who have repeatedly modelled what good friendship looks like. I am thrilled with my newly updated home. I am even grateful for the rain….yes the rain! It is peaceful and nourishing and a lot warmer than the snow and ice!

If I am honest, before I started writing this blog, I was not feeling great. Taking a moment to reflect has really helped my emotions to shift for the better. Do you have trouble finding that moment for reflection? You would not be the only one! If you are interested in finding it, consider joining our monthly meetup group. It’s a way to give yourself at least one hour each month (and maybe more if you are inspired) just for you! This month, we will look at how to nourish our nervous system to build wellness. Just click on the link below if you feel ready to join us.

Click to join our next zoom meetup

Wishing you a Happy New Year filled with wellness!!!