The inspiration for this post is a secret. But know this: a life was cut tragically short and it prompted me to really think about how I’ve been moving in my own life. The universe whispers reminders to be grateful and I confess, sometimes, I am not paying attention. These last few weeks, I’ve held my hands up, not knowing what to do and how to take steps in my own struggles. The particulars I won’t reveal here, but I am consciously aware that I am forgetting the simplicity and the essence of what it means to live. I think we all reach the empty place where we are fueling our own anxiety and complaining about the minutiae of daily life. I’ve noticed my own propensity to not be satisfied with the way things are wishing for and always wanting better and best. It’s a futile exercise because it leads to living a life that spits on gratitude, instead of embracing the light that is in and around you. In certain ways I’ve commanded myself to stand in the darkness because it is more convenient to complain, rather than acknowledge the beauty that moves in and around me.
The first step in trying to step into the light is to acknowledge those that you love. How often do you tell your Mom and Dad that you love them? Your spouse? Your children? Your friends? A dear friend texted me the words “Love ya” yesterday and in an instant the day became better, lighter, and more full of purpose. Everyday, I believe, we are all seeking affirmation and roaming around looking for it.
The easiest way to live your life like you mean it – Say I love you. To those who mean the world to you. It will remind you of the light.
Welcome! I am a lawyer turned freelance writer, essayist, and editor. On staff at Literary Mama and the co-founder and co-editor of the literary journal, The Sunlight Press, my essays and reported work have appeared in The Washington Post, The Lily, Saveur, Civil Eats, Brain, Child, ESPN and elsewhere. I am currently at work on a memoir on grief and culture and how it provides perspective on life’s ordinary graces. I invite you to appreciate the ordinary with me. I hope my daily practice of seeing the magic in the mundane helps you celebrate and find more of these moments in your life too.
I don’t know what happened but I’ve lifted a prayer for you. Big hugs. Your words are strong in truth. We often hear these words yet we fail to heed them. Sometimes it takes tragic circumstances for them to hit home. I had that happen myself a few months back. I so grateful for love and life, and I try to tell those I love I love them…still I probably don’t say it nearly enough and then others may tire of hearing those words from me.
Suzicate, I think we all are guilty of not saying it enough. And then something tragic happens and then the universe starts yelling at us to be grateful everyday for the people that inhabit our lives. Thanks for the the virtual hug.
Amen, Rudri. Amen.
Sorry, Rudri. I don’t know what happened but my thoughts and prayers are with you. These words are true and we need to tell those we love every day. Life is fragile and one never knows. Hugs and strength .
Ayala,
The fragility of life is something I am reminded of everyday. Those moments ring so intense that I am compelled to pay attention and really embrace all that encompasses my own life. Thank you for your warm thoughts. xoxo
I’m sorry to hear the news, but grateful to you for sharing this quote and your reflection. You’re in my thoughts.
Thanks Kristen. Always a pleasure to see you in my space.
I’m sorry for your sadness, Rudri. I’m always grateful to visit your blog and get a reminder of what is truly important.
Thanks Tiffany. This sadness is something that really urged me to pay attention to my own life and let the people that I love know that they matter to me. I think we all sometimes, because of our busy lives, lose sight of this lesson. Thanks so much for your kind words.
I was exactly doing that when I read your post. Am going to make that “I Love You” part of my day from now on. Thanks for the reminder!
Anne,
Glad that these three words are becoming a part of your day. Everyone loves to hear these words. It’s a vocal affirmation letting them know that they matter.
Awesome! You are absolutely right. I think I’ll go whisper into my sleeping baby’s ear that I love her and tell my hubby too. He’ll love that…lol. Visiting from SITS this evening.
Welcome be-quoted!
Thanks for visiting. Your comment about your hubby made me laugh. And I think the image of you whispering into your baby’s ears is just precious. Thanks so much for commenting.
I’m sorry about the unfortunate event in your life, Rudri. Indeed, a tragic event is a sobering reminder to be grateful for what we have. That we still have that chance to step back into the light, as you say, I’m ever so thankful. On top of all with which we’re blessed.
Justine:
I think we all need to be reminded that the light exists and that we can make the choice to step in it. Always nice to see you in my space. Thank you.
Beautiful post and very timely for me – so thank you. We all have something to be thankful for each day. 🙂
Glad I could help Crystal. I think we all forget, from time to time, the abundance in our lives. I certainly needed this reminder. Thank you for commenting.