October 31, 2021
Good morning friends. I hope you are doing well, and staying healthy and happy. Here we are, it’s Halloween. Trick or treat means we’re at the end of October. Now, all we have that stands between us and the New Year are two months filled with holiday celebrations. This time of year equates to more food, drinks and fun! 2022 will be here soon, yet many people are still trapped in 2020 restrictions, mandates and chaos. We need to open up the world and start living again. Life needs to resume, especially with the Holidays looming. I walked into a home improvement store a couple weeks ago. I was looking for a couple items, and of course enthralled with the power tools, when I found myself in ghostly world. It was a large selection of Halloween products. Lots of items to decorate your home and scare the sh*t out of the neighborhood kids. Then, with the blink of an eye, I was in the midst of a winter wonderland. I was knee deep into more Christmas stuff than you can imagine. It blows my mind how soon holiday items hit the stores each year; typically months before the actual date. What struck me as even more interesting, was watching shoppers buying Christmas items. I’m sure that’s great for retailers; and I suppose some shoppers too. Somehow it just seems way too early to be shopping in mid-October for Santa.
My other observation that day; there was definitely no shortage of holiday items on the shelves (or any other products for that matter). The vast majority of stuff seems to be manufactured in foreign lands. It made me wonder how much of the “supply chain” crisis is real or manufactured (so to speak). Your guess is as good as mine. I’ve been all over the Charleston area, the past six weeks, shopping for home goods, etc. I haven’t seen any shortage issues; only plenty of people shopping and buying. What’s the market scene been like where you live? Social media and news outlets are continually enthralled with creating fear, doom, gloom and disaster. This type of reporting sells, and people get wrapped up in the madness. Big businesses capitalize on the anxiety and stress associated with the shopping supply and demand. They peddle their products to the masses with a unique flare. I believe most people are more interested in resuming their lives, as normal and happy as possible. Living without fear makes the most sense to me. Don’t allow yourself to get caught up in the chaos and manipulation of the times. The Holiday season is upon us. My best advice, relax and breathe.
I have to say, celebrating my birthday this past week was pretty easy. I spoke to and heard from the people I love the absolute most; plus received many more fun wishes from family and friends. Now I’m already a week into my next trip around the sun. Time moves much too quickly! My birthday resolution is to slow down as much as possible, to enjoy every moment of life. I’ve already slowed my life down over the last seven years, but I believe I can add a bit more mindfulness to my days. I was one of the non-stop workaholic types; from career, to household duties/chores, to helping others in need. Now, I want to explore, be adventurous, passionate and excited to live a life filled with love. Moving to the south has provided a new appreciation for slow living. I am grateful and happy every day for all the opportunities life offers. For me, life begins with my happiness and gratitude. Getting outside more, enjoying nature and just breathing, is the key to my success. I’ve already learned the secret to my happiness. It’s me. I hope you find yours, because I know it’s there. You just need to make that decision every morning. Drop your ego, negativity and foolishness. Open your heart, mind and soul to the universe. Don’t try to control life. When you open yourself to the possibilities, that’s when the real fun begins. I want you to take the time you need to ensure you are loving every day of your life, as much as I love mine. This time of year is always filled with fun and excitement. The holiday season has a unique way of creating good cheer for all. Be sure to enjoy it!
Remember, as life continues, so do struggles, hardship and loss. I love this time of year, but it also holds sad memories too. My Dad passed away in December 2013. There’s an old saying, “Time heals all wounds.” I believe some events you learn to live with over time. Keep this thought in mind; you never know what others may be struggling with, that may not be publicly known. All humans share similar types of events in life that bring happiness or sadness. The best thing I can do is to be kind to everyone. Last week I mentioned how my attitude plays a large role in how I maintain my happiness. I was thinking about that comment further this past week, and came to this conclusion. I’ve always been a good hearted guy. This is primarily because my parents raised me properly. They taught me respect, honesty, loyalty, discipline and kindness (among other important traits and values). That instruction began at a very early age. I learned saying, “Please” and “Thank you” were just as valuable as saying, “You’re welcome.” People in positions of authority; like law enforcement, doctors, teachers, and others, were given respect. I have lived and breathed these traits all my life. Many of these simple values have fallen by the wayside. I struggle when I see families at a restaurant or event, and they each have their face buried in their cell phone. Family values, are due for a resurgence. It’s time these valuable attributes are re-introduced to society. Humility and kindness can counteract the negativity of corruption and greed. Our world needs less hate and fear; and lots more understanding and love.
Our time on this earth is limited. If you want positive change to occur, you have to be willing to change for the better. If you want to be happy, then be happy. It’s completely up to you. There isn’t a magical formula. Happiness is a choice. It’s not an object or thing. As opportunities come your way, don’t be hesitant or fearful to reach for them. They may only pass by once. Don’t miss that chance. Don’t live a life wishing you had done more. I want to empower you to reach for your stars and live your dreams. Anything is possible, just believe you have the strength, power and courage to succeed.” When you believe in yourself, you are capable of achieving any goal you desire. I am putting in the work and effort every day. My discipline and dedication is focused on being a better human and living my true life. Be kind to yourself and all people. The vast majority of humans on this planet want nothing more than to live in peace and harmony. Release your fears about life, including all those thrown upon us daily from media sources, manipulative individuals or those seeking our exploitation. Live your best life in freedom and happiness. Show gratitude and thanks every day. We each have so much to be grateful for, beginning with life. Follow your dreams. They know the way.
Happy Halloween! Be safe out there and enjoy some treats! Sending you love and happiness.
Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more! The healthy life puzzle is always in rotation. Let’s be healthy and strong mentally, physically and spiritually!
Thanks for your love and support! Embrace Life! Be sure to get outside and enjoy nature!
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