I try to experience gratitude on a daily basis. Bring my mind back from drifting thoughts or that place of “less than” or “not enough” and truly experience gratitude for what I have in this beautiful life. Although, I’m compelled to share that there are definitely moments when life gets busy, my to-do list grows, ideas and dreams turn into a laundry list, and this world feels a little bigger than me. I have to remind myself that my world is as big or as small as I want it to be. And, gratitude seems to be the link bringing me back to center when I feel like there will never be enough (time, energy, money, ideas)… I look around and realize that there already is enough….everything else is just an added bonus. Let me explain…
This year I’m headed out to LA again, to spend the holiday with my family (minus the “wittlest duckling” who is still living it up in Italy study aboard), my boyfriend and his brother. Really looking forward to getting out of the cold NY weather and taking a moment to enjoy some down time with the people I love. When we’re all together, there is truly no place I’d rather be. I’m looking forward to disconnecting from the internet and work for a few days too. Plan to have all ducks in a row before take-off so I can truly give my mind a detox and just enjoy. I also found this great article in the New York Times for some vegetarian thanksgiving recipes that I’m tempted to try too (will obviously let you know how it goes!).
As I reflect on this year I can’t help but to feel grateful, inspired, motivated and appreciative. There was a mix of high points and low points and everything in between. A lot of growth, internal reflection, successes, challenges, shedding of old and the creation of new.
This year was sprinkled with three untimely passings of young people in my life and community who were all vibrant, energetic, amazing people. Lives were cut short; and I’m making peace and reflecting on how it all impacted me. It made me think about how grateful I am to be able to do the simplest things like run, breathe, make choices, and enjoy a sunset. It also served as the 4th year anniversary of my cousin David who passed. It’s a true reminder to me to live out each day and find ways to make the most out of the time we have while truly cherishing those in it. It is also the perspective of how important moments and relationships are. Each day is a new opportunity to impact all of our relationships in a positive way. We can control what we bring to the table. I encourage you to think about your role in the relationships in your life and how today you can do better. I will do the same. Each year, I become more grateful to be able to spend time around my family, supportive friends, and warm positive people who add to my life.
This year was also about shedding excess baggage from years past, and people, items and limiting beliefs that do not support or serve me in anymore. Acknowledging that its okay to do so. This is always difficult to do but can be done with a commitment to staying true to yourself and who and what you choose to let into your life and that same commitment to not settling for anything less. I believe in the laws of physics that two things can not occupy the same space as the same time. This holds true for your mental space, emotional space and living space too. In order to welcome in new and positive opportunities, people, items and thoughts that are in line with your integrity, you must let go of anything that is taking up physical or mental space and energy that is not serving you. You can start in your home, and then when you’re comfortable you can move on to your thoughts, emotions and relationships. This is a great time for bringing gratitude into your life, connecting with yourself, your values, your family and your purpose.
I also had a blast traveling this year (CA, FL, CO, RI and Israel) and taking big leaps in my business (launching E-circle, doing speaking engagements and supporting new and amazing clients). This year was about listening to my heart, my pulse and my passion.
Lastly…I am thankful for the awareness that I have, and the opportunities that lie ahead. I am thankful for the people in my life who support me and encourage me to be better. I am thankful for the stumbling blocks along the way that teach me valuable lessons and open my mind to new possibilities and more perspective. I am thankful for you, who support me, read this blog, welcome my ideas and allow me to join you on your journey too. From the bottom of my heart…thank you!
Wishing you a wonderful thanksgiving, many things big and small to be thankful for, and a delicious meal!
With warmth and gratitude,
Xo
♥ D
Now for a trip down Memory Lane, some of my older posts about gratitude:
May 31, 2011 from my weekend away: “the grass may be greener, but the water bill is also higher.”
April 21, 2011 “the universe rewards gratitude”
Jan 14, 2010: How Much Do You Trust The Universe?
Jan 1, 2010: I’ve got TWO WORDS for you, for the YEAR OF YOUR LIFE!
Dec 2, 2009: Tis’ the season. Tips for keeping your stress level and wallet under wraps this holiday season!
June 2, 2009: My Daily Gratitude Reminder
June 1, 2009: Give GREAT thanks to attract MORE into your life.
May 28, 2009: Spruce things up a bit, will ya?!
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