Sometimes we need a reminder of how special we are, an amazing speaker or a piece of music to rekindle us, to feed us, to remind us of the strength we all have inside, and to celebrate the uniqueness within, our imperfect natures that make us who we are.

I post these as a reminder to myself, and also that they may touch someone else’s life as they do mine.

~ namaste

Sometimes, the silent support of a friend, a heartfelt “you did a great job”, or a very simple “thank you” keep us going, keep us believing.

I know.

As one who is in the process of tearing down the protective wall I built up, who so many times just wanted to give up the struggle, who gave up believing, who depended on others to feel happy about myself, who made excuses and withdrew from the world, all worlds over the years, who let her fears overwhelm her from embracing the strength inside, who let the words of others tear her down…

I focus now on strength, belief, and slowly work on overcoming fears.  Fear of change, fear of not being good enough, fear of failing.  I’m still afraid of lima beans, mind you, still have nightmares about eating those squishy things when I was a child.  Nope, not gonna change that one.  Rock climbing too, I detest rock climbing and personally can’t figure that one out although I applaud all those who love it.  Now I would jump out of a perfectly good airplane, so you’ve got me on that…

Les Brown is of my favorite speakers.  Perhaps his message will touch you as it does me, or perhaps it will open you to what lies under the surface of others.

I like this quote:  “You are not required to set yourself on fire to keep others warm.”

One thing I was reminded of recently, especially in the world of SL, is this:

We may never know the struggles that others are facing, behind the words, behind the smiles.  I am reminded to be patient, to be kind, to be considerate and open-minded.  Most of all, I hope that others know and feel that someone believes in them, cares for them.

I am so very grateful for the people in my life, and that they accept me for who I am, warts and all.

A very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and bright blessings to you.