Thoughts For Upcoming Holiday Season
10 Dec 2008
Happy Holidays!
With the upcoming holiday season, we are all very busy taking care of what needs to be done in addition to our already busy schedule, it is a time to spend with the people we care about doing things we enjoy, for some it is a very spiritual time, for some a time of reflection, and for most a time of hope. A lot of people tend to look at where they are, and where they want to go (much like birthdays) this has defiantly been a topic between myself and Jacqui, It seems to be a time of evoking many levels of change for us both. We are both in a place where we are getting in touch with “what matters most” to each of us. Our children and our friendships, and family, in addition to what we wish to do with our time here, I saw a quote which I must say, I keep saying in my mind “when I stand before God at the end of my days I wish to say I have no talent left, I used everything you gave me” Said by Erma Bonbeck I can not tell you how deeply this resonates with me, I am a deeply spiritual person, (here is the out on a limb part) I do not subscribe to any one religion I do believe all religions are different paths to the same God, and that they all hold truths and that there is so much more “out there” than any one can possibly know and that all humans have a guide on this journey we call life. There seems to be a common thread lately of change in peoples lives, it seems to me, many people are being asked to evaluate what they value, and why they are here, and what is there purpose? I can honestly say that I do believe part of my purpose it to “affect change” for people. I do this in my regular work on a daily basis, as well I do believe for both Jacqui and myself that is a driving force behind this site.
During this very busy hectic time it is my hope for anyone and everyone that they take time to look at what they really choose to do with there time here. As there are no guarantees on the date we may be asked to leave, another question I ask myself daily is a question, by an unknown author, it is on a plaque in my bedroom so I can ask myself every day “If you knew you would not fail, what would you attempt to do?” I love this because it challenges me to not let the thought of failure stand in the way of a desire. Now if you know me well, you know fear and common sense are not things that enter my mind when I come up with my next “Idea” as I am sure there is many times when Jacqui picks up the phone, and wonders, what is she going to want to do next? I have had more than a few odd looks with the posed question “You want to do what?” I can tell you some of the things I have asked Jacqui to do, I am quite sure most people would not! And because she shares the same adventurous spirit, she is always right in with me. The latest thing being celebrating the first snow fall with a polar bear dip in Smiles Park. It actually, was one of the most renewing experiences of my life. As Jacqui said some start fresh in the New Year that was a fresh start for us! (We will be repeating this again in spring if you care to join us) all that you need is a bikini and shoes. I ended up bare foot, and rocks are hard on the feet. Especially cold ones, this has been among many ideas we have carried out, most ask us “what are you two up to now?” (in a good way) .
In any case if I could share one thought for the holiday season, and the upcoming year, it would be to each day, take one thing that you have either always wanted to do or strikes you to do, and do it, it is unbelievably empowering! Now I am not suggesting you be like me, common sense goes a long way and I do have Jacqui there to help keep my feet on the ground, although I have a strong desire for sky diving, Jacqui not so much, but I am working on it. In addition to this both Jacqui and I spend much time making other peoples load a little lighter, this is tremendously warming for the soul. So as we approach the upcoming holiday season and the new year, remember that it is not only at this time we can make a difference for others as well as ourselves but it is every day of the year! Cherish these times you have because I remember a quote again, author unknown, “every day you are given 24 hrs it is one of the few things you get free of charge in this world once it is gone it can not be retrieved”. If you are blessed enough to be here tomorrow remember to ask yourself how in your heart do you really choose to use that 24 hrs? As noted before we don’t know when we will be asked to hand that 24 hrs back, it does not tend to be the things we do that we regret, but rather the things we don't do. In 2009 Live with intention, love like theres no tomorrow, and be true to who you are inside. Above all see the value in relationships, humanity and life! Embrace the day be an example for those around you and spend time inspiring yourself or someone else, you will find yourself empowered and joyous at every turn and I promise it is not something you will regret!
Much love to you and yours
Jacqui & Anastasia
Anastasia LeFresne
|
