This week I embraced (for want of a better word!) a significant milestone birthday.
Instead of doing 50 new things, recalling 50 memorable moments, or ticking off a bucket list of 50 big experiences, I’m giving myself permission to move gently into this new stage of my life.
….
From a young age, I learned that life has challenges. It isn’t fair. It’s not always as we would hope.
At times, I didn’t think I would make it to this milestone.
These experiences have helped me hold space for thousands of people as they process and reflect on the agonising beauty that it is to be a living, breathing, human.
Everyone has their own story.
We are not the sum of the highly polished (or barely held together) parts we put on our highlight reel.
We are all stitched together with hundreds and hundreds of moments of struggle, joy, connection, isolation, disappointment, and celebration.
….
As I ease into the next stage of life I am embracing the honour it is to age – a gift many people in my life haven’t had the opportunity to experience. I’m watching my hair go grey, spotting the creases that used to be contained to my eyes, and realising with increasing clarity that being human is a constant work in progress.
Here’s the thing… tucked amongst the challenges, life has given me three of the greatest gifts…The understanding that true support is being able to safely share your story. In my experience support comes in many different ways when we’re open to it
Creating, reflecting, listening, escaping into creativty and expressing are, and will always be in my DNA.
And, being curious, listening to your inner self and trusting the process is the most powerful way to stop swirling thoughts in their tracks.
So in my Birthday week, I’m wondering what you need to remind yourself to move forward, let go, acknowledge, and connect to your experiences?
Here’s to a week of being well.
Bel
Every Sunday afternoon, Bel sends the Ignite community a personal note of encouragement – reflection, inspiration, stories, and sharing. It’s our way of helping you prepare for the week ahead. Add your details here to receive Here’s The Thing in your inbox.