Easter Gratitude
April 9, 2023
Good morning my friends. I hope you’re doing well and enjoying life. Happy Easter Sunday! It’s a beautiful day to be alive. Yes, there are things occurring in our world that are not always happy or pleasant. The craziness around the globe does not deter me from remaining hopeful and positive. I am grateful for each new sunrise and the opportunity to share another day on earth. I am especially filled with joy on this special holiday. Depending what your views are of God or religion (or if you have opinions or not), today could have several different meanings. My friends, of the Jewish faith, began their celebration of Passover this past Thursday. Christians honored Good Friday. For me, today commemorates the resurrection of God and that there is life after death. Whoever you are and whatever beliefs you hold dear (religious or not), please just be kind today. Today isn’t all about candy filled baskets and treats. I haven’t been much of an “Easter bunny” person since my daughter was a child. All I ask of you, here in the present, is to be thankful and show some gratitude to your fellow humans every day. We never know what other individuals may be struggling with at any given time. When I begin each day with happiness and a positive outlook, my life and the world become a better place. My attitude sets the tone for each minute I share with everyone I contact. Embrace the gift of life and know that love and happiness are possible every today. All we have to do is try. My happiness and love all begin within me. Positivity and joy don’t mean my life is perfect or without struggles. It’s my choice to live a vibrant life, thrilled to share each moment of this journey, while empowering others to reach for their own bliss.
I’m not here to preach or push my religious views, beliefs or agenda onto anyone. I’ve had my share of ups, downs and struggles with the church and life; but God always has a way to keep me close. Life will always have obstacles to cross or struggles to deal with during our time on earth. It doesn’t matter whether these issues are personal, social, economic or anything else; each is unique unto us. We all deal with these situations differently, even if they are similar in nature. Always do your best to rise above the difficult moments with strength, fortitude and care. I have come to realize, over my many years on this earth, that as much as I attempt to avoid negativity or hurdles, they often appear out of nowhere. There are so many things, issues or situations that are beyond my control, that’s it’s impossible to remain free from strife. The best I can do, each day, is to remain positive, happy, resilient and grateful. If I succumb to the negativity around me, it only serves to hinder my progress into the future. Time keeps marching forward and waits for no one. What are you waiting for? Stop procrastinating or saying, “someday” I’ll do that.” There are seven days in the week and I don’t recall seeing “someday” on the list. You will never accomplish anything until you get up and take action. If you keep telling yourself, you aren’t good enough or you cannot do something; soon you’ll believe it. Instead, think positive, believe in your own ability and have self-confidence in your power. I remember a time in my past, I used the word “someday” all too often. I’m sure my hesitation was out of fear, lack of self-confidence, past trauma or a combination of all of the above. When I believe in myself, I am an unstoppable force.
There is another phrase, that I hear all too often and I dislike with a passion; “It is what it is.” To me, these five words indicate a lack of choice, no freedom of decision-making power or ability. For me, this only sentence invokes negativity. I choose to remain forever hopeful in every aspect of my life. We always have free will to decide between right and wrong or good and evil. I made my choices years ago, to live with integrity. This doesn’t make me any better than anyone else, or mean that I don’t screw up every so often. What it does mean, is that I try my best each day to be the best possible version on me. I want the world and everyone in it to be better, happier and more positive. Each of us are unique and creative individuals. Strive to be stronger, healthier and happier in every aspect of life; mentally, physically and spiritually. Don’t allow others to manipulate, dictate or control your power. Trust yourself and believe in your own intuition. If your gut thinks something is wrong, believe it. Set boundaries, don’t be afraid to say no or speak your truth. Don’t wait, the time is now, so get moving. Together, we can make our world a better place.
When I was a kid, I didn’t get the memo that I could be anything I wanted to be or travel anywhere that sparked my interest. I know I dreamed of being many things, but felt confined within a box. I’m grateful I had an amazing Dad, who provided me the opportunities to seek out things young boys need to help them grow into young men. I thank God for the gift of an incredible father who guided me into manhood. He was and will always be my greatest inspiration. When I graduated from college, I was in-charge of the direction my life and what path to take. I wish my mind had opened fully and knew then what I know now. Life could have been so much different. I, like many of us, learned through trial and error. Now, armed with age, knowledge and wisdom, it’s easy for me to share my thoughts and ideas of life and love. Don’t allow fear to hold you back. What I now know is that if you never take that chance, nothing amazing is ever possible. Sure, there is a possibility it won’t be work out exactly as you imagined; but what if it turns out to be more amazing than you thought? I say, don’t wait! It all begins with one step forward. Let your imagination soar. It’s never too late to dream new dreams. Live a happy life in the present. Don’t dwell on the past or worry about what the future holds. Hold your dreams tightly and seek them out every day. This is where you’ll discover your own bliss and magic! I remain enthralled with on my own journey of life. My mind, body and spirit are open to the possibilities every day. My happy place is out on the road, seeking new adventures. I look forward to seeing you out there! Enjoy a blessed and beautiful Easter Sunday. 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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