Tag: empowerment

A Lesson in Joy and Possibility

I attended a cookout over the weekend with great people, good food and lots of line dancing.

We enjoyed ourselves, with fans in hands, boots on the ground, and joyful laughter as we moved to the music. 

And then, before the evening ended, a beautiful little girl I did not know, perhaps 6 or 7 years old, joined the adults who had carved out space for themselves in front of the DJ.

She danced like no one was watching (although dozens of us were). 

She twisted and swayed, put a hand on her hip and even fit in a few squats and dips, all under the watchful eyes of her parents, while surrounded by a group fellow dancers – “aunties” who cheered her on with smiles and claps, over several songs. 

Even the DJ felt inspired by her freedom of spirit and movement.

“Dance doll baby!” he finally declared, then deadpanned to all of us watching: “She’s gonna fall asleep the minute she gets in the car for the ride home!”

We chuckled at the likelihood of that truth, but what struck me even more was the truth of possibilities her impromptu performance inspired. 

To witness this little brown princess own her right to be herself, enjoy herself and embrace the support that surrounded her was a beautiful gift on the day known as Independence Day.

Who knows what she’ll grow up to do or who she’ll become, but if she holds onto the confidence and love that is clearly already instilled within her, and if a community of support continues to surround her (loved ones and strangers alike), her heart’s dreams can transition into her lived purpose.

She was a dancing, smiling, twinkle-eyed representation of who we all can be – regardless of age or stage – with just the right elements feeding our souls and with our willingness to give the best of ourselves to others.

Perhaps we can be more intentional these days about filling our inner wells in this way – and becoming that gift to others?? 

Make the Most of It

In an email chat with a friend a few years ago, we traded stories about people we cared for who were desperately ill, and discussed how watching them suffer made us value life all the more. That conversation, and the truths we shared, linger with me.

So today, I challenge you to consider all you value and cherish it all the more.

Give thanks for your health, your skills and talents, your relationships and the opportunities you’ve been given, and treat them as the gifts they are.

Instead of fretting over what you don’t have, appreciate all that you do.

Rather than playing it safe and never pushing past your comfort zone, take a chance; do something new; allow your world to expand.

Choose to feel frustration then release it, so you can use that energy to find new reasons to smile.

It’s all up to you.

You only get to experience this day, this week and this life, just once. Make the most of it and enjoy as much of the journey as you can.

It’s Your Story to Live and Enjoy

What pages will you write in your life story this month, and in the months to come? 

Be sure to reserve some time on your calendar for the things that = self-care.

For me, this includes moments that induce laughter, hugs that linger, great conversations, a good book paired with a cup of tea, some writing and journaling time, learning a new line dance or two, and enjoying TV shows or movies that feature themes or plots that help me see the world more broadly or entertain me in ways that help me grow.

That’s my list; now it’s your turn.

Amid your “must dos” create space for what you “can do” that will make your heart smile and leave you feeling renewed.

Steward Your Intentions

Today and going forward, may we embrace the impact of Intention. Now more than ever, it matters. 

Be intentional about where and how you spend your time. Does it fuel your purpose, feed your soul or lift your spirits? 

Be intentional about what you say and how you say it. Do you speak life over your life, your loved ones and even your strategic To Do list? If this is not yet a habit, start today.  

Be intentional about when and how you take up space. Do your presence and actions foster goodness, show others a better way and leave those in your circle better than you found them? 

We are worth the intention it takes to create lives filled with love, hope and meaning. Hold onto this truth as you honor your journey. 

Grieving During the Holidays

Let’s talk about grief.

I posted the message below eight years ago today, right after my sister Pat’s passing.

As I head into my late mother’s birthday tomorrow, and the 1st anniversary of my brother’s Dec. 20 passing,

and hold in my heart friends and loved ones who are grappling with loss during the holidays, I find it important to share these words again-

to remind you that grief is a necessary part of life and to love yourself through it.

Please read on, then doing something kind for yourself today.

I’m completing some writing projects this morning,

getting a massage this afternoon, and

spending time with friends this evening.

Sending a virtual hug to all who need it and encouraging you to cherish good memories.

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