November 21, 2021
Good morning friends. I hope you’re doing well today. Stay happy, healthy and focused with kindness and gratitude. This coming Thursday, November 25th, we celebrate Thanksgiving. If there was a specific day to be grateful and give thanks, this is definitely it! We’ve experienced many turbulent events, difficult times and tragedies over the last two years. This is the time to heal from those wounds and move forward with life. Please take the time to give thanks for all your blessings; the most important of all is the gift of life. There is always something to be thankful for, beginning with waking up with each new sunrise. During the last 21 months, many families have been affected in various ways by the difficult times. Events across the planet increased frustration, stress and anxiety. Social issues, financial difficulties, sickness and death touched many lives. I offer my thoughts and prayers to my family and friends who share today in sadness.
I thank God and the universe for bringing us through to this day. I have so much to be grateful and thankful for in my life. My amazing daughter, family, friends and acquaintances are truly a blessing every day. My journey into this world began with loving parents and a supportive family. I continue into the future, with some of them no longer seated at our table. I miss their physical presence, but am grateful they showed and taught me the importance of life and love. I am grateful and happy for each new day of life. I honor them with my ability to do my best each day to assist others. Positivity and happiness are my daily choice. I hope you do whatever you can to spread the wealth of these blessings every day.
I often hear individuals talk about happiness like it’s an elusive object or possession. The fact is, happiness is something that comes from within each of us. It can’t be bought, sold or acquired from possessions or others. Happiness is our personal choice. Why wouldn’t you or anyone want to be happy? I thank God for each new day I awaken. I’m grateful for the many opportunities that appear with the sunrise; for me to be happy, reach for my dreams and succeed. I begin each morning with gratitude, positivity and happiness. When I do this, not only does my day become more vibrant, but I recognize what this amazing journey we call life is all about. Living a great life shouldn’t be based on how many possessions I accumulate, how much money I have or where I live. For me, life is more about being a good person; treating others with kindness, respect and love. I enjoy my life because I’m happy with myself and who I am. It’s taken me some time and work to get here, but I’m a better man for the difficult times I’ve faced and the challenges I’ve overcome. We all experience difficult situations, hardships and sadness. How we pull ourselves beyond those times, helps mold our character, values and personality. When I begin each day with gratitude, my place in the world, and life, are much more focused and clearer. I don’t worry about events or issues beyond my control. I live my life in the present; striving to be a better human and enjoying each moment as it unfolds and transpires before me. Yes, it takes constant effort and maintaining my mental stability. I’m definitely not perfect. I experience anxiety, stress and negativity like everyone else. Exercise, yoga, meditation, healthy eating habits and a lot of determination help me through each day. I’m definitely not perfect and don’t pretend to be even close. My struggles may be different than yours, but we all struggle at times.
I realize there is uncertainty in the present state of our nation and the world. Financial, social and political issues continue to plague our country. We should all know by now, there are evil and unscrupulous individuals scattered across our planet. Unfortunately, we have many here at home. Often, through no willingness of our own, we’re forced to interact with some these people. These interactions often include our own political leaders (who some lack the ability the lead). Individuals like these seem to be the biggest offenders and often the root of our social, economic and cultural problems in this land. Until voters get tired of these ridicules people, positive change will be lacking. Remember, we are all in this together. Earth is a tiny planet in this enormous (never ending) universe The vast majority of the world (including people here in the USA) want to live in freedom and peace. Let’s do our best (wherever you are) to ensure we come together in kindness and love, to bring our planet and nation together again.
The Holidays are a magical time of year. We all can use some magic in our lives right now. I know I can. If we each do our part, showing kindness and love to others (including ourselves), I’m confident the world will begin to heal. Slow your pace, and take time to enjoy your life, nature, our planet and all of Gods creations. If you feel the hurt, sadness or negativity pulling you down, don’t panic. Allow yourself (and your being) to experience the emotions associated with whatever is the cause. It’s okay to cry and feel sad. I have lost too many family members, friends and coworkers to death. I have cried many days after my Dad passed away. Thinking of him on certain days still makes me cry. I cried when our dog (Cinnamon), of nearly 16 years, passed away several years ago. Holding her in my arms, watching her close her eyes and leave this world was beyond heartbreaking and sad. I’ll admit I cried just the other night watching a Hallmark Christmas movie. It may seem silly, but the Holidays do trigger an array of emotions. My daughter and I began watching these movies years ago. Now she has me hopelessly hooked. It’s okay to show your emotions and let them be felt. Holding emotions in and restraining them only damages ourselves. We’re all human beings and emotions are one of our beautiful traits.
A friend recently reminded me of the significance of life. After returning from a trip abroad, the words resonated with me. “Living to my fullest potential, giving back and humbled,” reminded me of similar experiences and thoughts of my own. We are truly blessed and fortunate to live in America. We have so much, yet are not happy. We move at a fast pace, yet are not grateful. Why is that? It’s time to change our attitudes and mindset. My goal this Holiday season is to slow myself down each day. Time keeps ticking away, while the days keep moving forward at the same pace. When I’m in a rush, it just seems to speed up my day and I miss the tiny important moments in time. I want to cherish each minute of my life; as I’m sure you do as well. I wish you all a happy and blessed Thanksgiving week and day. Be grateful and happy with each new sunrise. I start each day off with a happy heart and positive attitude. That sets the tone for goodness all day long. Make the choice and right now. Don’t stop just because Thanksgiving has passed. Continue with a grateful heart, and carry this new mindset and attitude into the New Year. I guarantee when you change your thoughts, you’ll change your life. Love your life. I’m loving mine. It’s a gift and limited one time opportunity. Follow your dreams. They know the way.
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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