Explore, Create, Inquire, Seek, Share, Learn

I was raised to believe that if I just worked hard enough I could achieve and acquire anything I desired. I was taught to smile in public and keep difficulties to myself. Being self sufficient seemed of utmost importance and has resulted in significant aloneness, not always for the best.

I have learned that sometimes life just goes the way it goes. I am powerless over most things in this existence. I’ve discovered that everyone struggles at times, and that struggling does not require suffering. I’m independent and capable and strong. And I’m practicing asking for help, inviting people into my life and my heart, allowing others to contribute to me.

To me? I’m the one who is supposed to be the do-er, the helper, the assistant, the one who is just “fine”. It turns out I need other people. I need friends and relatives, whether blood-ties or chosen family, in this experiential, hands-on survival-obstacle-course called life.

Today I am grateful for the opportunity to connect more deeply with my family, my cousins who have welcomed me and accepted me into their lives. I’m grateful for the moments I spend with these lovely children during these weeks. I’m grateful for their generosity and hospitality, which I would have been too shy to request but can hopefully return someday.

Today I am grateful for the time I get to spend with other family and friends here in my hometown. Its been nearly a decade since I last stayed here. I’ve been hesitant to return and tremendously glad I have this opportunity. Time. Growth. Change.

Today I am grateful for Yoga which soothes and stretches me physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. I am grateful for heat and sweat and strength and flexibility. I am grateful for movement and challenges, stillness and peace. Breath. Pranayama.

Oh, and drink water in greater quantities than any other beverage! Coffee is not a food group.

As I continue into week 3 of RV life I will incorporate things that life is teaching me. Breathe. Ask for what I want. Breathe. Know I am not alone. Breathe. Trust what is. Breathe. Practice yoga daily. Breathe. Be present. Breathe. Allow people in. Breathe. Reach out. Breathe in slowly. Pause. Breathe out slowly. Pause. Reflect. Breathe.

“We’re all just walking each other home.” Ram Dass