April 24, 2022
Good morning my friends. I hope you are doing well and enjoying life. Here we are, it’s already the final Sunday of April 2022! Each time I think I’m slowing my life down, another week ticks away quicker than the last. If time fading away faster and faster isn’t scary enough, I keep wondering how many more topics of interest I can write about each Sunday. Fortunately, ideas keep appearing in my thoughts, so here I am again. Journaling is a great way to collect your thoughts, goals or intentions; put them on paper and release them from the confines of your mind. Writing, for me, has become my new escape and is basically journaling for the world to see. It’s my reason (or at least one of them) to keep pushing forward into each new day. Putting my thoughts into words provides a cathartic release of energy. For many years, exercise (running or working out) was my “go to” for stress relief. I’ve learned over the years that physical activity only focused on one aspect of my anxiety. Journaling, writing and documenting my ideas, assist in releasing and relieving the mental stresses I experience. Yoga and meditation are amazing tools that have helped relax me in ways I knew existed, but never fully understood their power. If you don’t have a great escape (or several), it’s definitely time to find some to help relax your entire body (physically, mentally and spiritually). I’m not referring to actually running away, although that can be fun to do sometimes too. Travel, visiting new places and cultures are fabulous ways to get out and experience life. You don’t need to “escape” to find yourself. If you take the time to look deeply into your own being, you’ll discover what you’re searching for. Maybe it’s time to re-discover your reason why; if you haven’t found it already. It’s never too late to dream new dreams, seek new adventures, live your passions or reach for the stars!
It’s taken me many years to discover my reason “why.” Discovering the joy in my personal life wasn’t always easy. When I began my career in law enforcement, I experienced many joyful rewards in helping others. The job provided more satisfaction than I knew was possible. For over half my life, my focus has been my career. Work was my salvation and escape during all those years. Sinking myself into my career, wasn’t for monetary gains, becoming rich or famous. I enjoyed my job, the comradery I felt, the great individuals I worked with and the opportunity to make a difference in the world. I might not have made a huge impact, but it was mine. The positives propelled me forward and it helped pay my living expenses along the way. Work was like having an amazing place to hide. I didn’t have to deal with my personal life issues, anxieties or fears. I was good at what I did, because I believed removing evil from society was an honorable and right thing to do. Fear was never an issue for me at work. I had confidence in myself and in the courageous individuals I worked alongside during that time. Law enforcement, solving crimes and bringing criminals to justice became my obsession. I enjoyed a great career, but I lost myself along that path. Please don’t follow in my footsteps, and become obsessed with your job. This rings especially true, if you focus on work for the wrong reasons (like ego, greed or power). Do something that fulfills your passions and dreams, while providing a deep satisfaction for your soul. Remember this old saying, “work to live, don’t live to work.” Life (or success) isn’t based on how much money you earn, how many possessions you acquire how many long hours you spend at work. Find a healthy balance between work and play, or you’ll miss out on the best parts of a happy and fruitful life.
When my daughter was born, the majority of my attention was rightfully diverted to her. She became my “why” and has remained there since she entered this world. Work continued to be my escape, until I retired nearly eight years ago. The years that have followed have been filled with probing deeper into my past to find myself in the present. There have been struggles, heart break, soul searching, self-discovery, shadow work and new growth along this winding path. Ultimately, the journey has brought me to a new place in life. I’m here, right now, no longer struggling or fearful to be me. It makes me a bit sad, knowing it’s taken me so long to discover who I am and why I’m here. There were many opportunities that were missed or tossed aside, because of how my past interfered with my present. Counseling led me to EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, which changed my life and outlook. I now know and understand how lucky I am for each new day and the opportunities that are provided with each new sunrise. It’s easier for me to recognize how my past influenced and created negativity in my life. Being aware of these issues helps keep me focused on where I am and where I want to take my future. Life is so much better when I can open my heart and soul to others and share my thoughts; as well as myself. The realizations, alterations and changes in my attitude and perspective have created a new balance in my life.
For those of us who struggle with issues or events (of any kind); know that assistance and help is easily obtained. I realize making that assessment and decision can be a daunting task, because I was one of those people. No one wants to admit that they need help, but that admission is really the first step to healing. The sooner you have the courage to dig deep into yourself, seek support, guidance or professional therapy; the sooner you will be on the road to being healthier and happier. A good starting point is examining your balance between work and play. Do you live for work and monetary gains? What’s important in life? If you’re in a job you dislike, that causes stress or anxiety; only because it pays great, it’s time to re-think your priorities. Seek what brings you joy and happiness. Create your life around your dreams and passions. Don’t become blinded by what society or social media dictate or their ideas of what’s right or wrong. Don’t fear change. A metamorphosis can be good; even if it means evolving several times over a lifetime. I have grown from childhood; from student, firefighter, police officer, yoga instructor and now a writer. The greatest version of me is being a Dad to an amazing daughter. I’ve had the pleasure of helping others along my path; while individuals have assisted me along the way too. It’s been a journey of growth and development. Take time to breathe, while you bask in the magnificence of nature. Believe in your own power and strength, while you empower others in the journey. Stay positive, while you work hard every day to turn your dreams into reality. A little self-confidence goes a long way, especially when you believe and have faith in the Universe. Be the person God intended you to be. Open your heart and soul to the possibilities. Follow your dreams. They know the way.
Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more! The puzzle of life is always changing. Change can lead to amazing opportunities. Together, 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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