Letting go.

Dear Blog,
I am sorry that I  have neglected you for over a month, but I'm back, just in time for the Holidays.

Winter is here and for me this is a time for reflection.  Just as in nature, the seasons allow what needs to die off to die off, so that new things can grow. Imagine a plant held onto every flower that bloomed, even after it had died, after a period of time, there would be no room for new growth. There would just be an ugly plant covered in dead flowers that no longer fed the bees or butterflies. 

I encourage you to take this time to reflect on yourself and to recognise the old habits that no longer serve you. Old opinions, judgements, maybe even friendships that have become toxic.  Making room in your life for new and different experiences is frightening, to say the least.  But sometimes staying in the same place, doing the same things is more damaging than making a few mistakes on this journey.

I can only speak for myself and from my own experience.  I moved to San Francisco to be closer to my family and to make something of my life in this country.  I began working as a receptionist at a hair salon and was very unhappy, with no idea what I wanted to do. I decided in November to quit my job and to take a few months to really figure things out.
It was terrifying!  Quitting my job was easy...It was figuring out what I wanted to do with my freedom that was hard.  I really had to shed many of the labels I had put on myself (too shy, not good enough, not smart enough, etc..)  I have learned that sometimes a leap of faith is the only mode of transport available.

I am not rich, we do not have a lot of money and I no longer buy all the shoes and clothes that I want.  But I am happier than I have ever been and living a full life, without all the shoes and clothes.  I have learned that  I AM good enough, I AM smart enough and I DO have something to contribute (even if sometimes it's just a hug or a smile)

I am not saying quit your job and live as a gypsy.  I am just suggesting, or encouraging you to take a long hard look at your life, or even just this year of your life and to let go of what is no longer relevant.  It might be something your parents had told you, or your teacher or even your spouse.  YOU are the only one that matters and it is only YOUR opinion that standing in the way of reaching your bliss.

Be kind to yourself,
Let go,
Trust,
Love.


With gratitude and love,
Jacqui.