Venturing out on vacation has provided me with the opportunity to reflect on what I’m grateful for. This wasn’t actually a planned meditative-type activity or anything like that; in fact, I’ve been surprised to find that these things just kind of come to me as I am in various states of drunkenness relaxation. Spontaneous moments of gratitude. Outside of the obvious friends/family/health etc., here are a few things for which I would like to give thanks.
- I am grateful that I have found yoga and trapeze, two activities that really have changed my life. It’s interesting to me that both of these endeavors have very strong communities built around them. Perhaps more than the physical and mental aspects of these pursuits, what draws me to them is my need for a sense of community, or a need to belong. However, the truth is that I feel I am on the outside looking in on both the yoga and the trapeze communities — I don’t feel “excluded”, but I wouldn’t say that I feel included either. Perhaps this is me clinging on to a bit of independence, or perhaps it’s a repressed bit of insecurity and loneliness rearing its ugly head. (or perhaps the communities just don’t want me as a part of them!). Regardless, I will continue to explore and experience what these activities have to offer as I know I will only be the better for it — physically, mentally and emotionally; on my own or as part of something bigger.
- I am grateful for Facebook. I know that statement is laughable to some of you, but hear me out. I’ve been able to re-connect with friends near and far, from every stage of my life. I’ve solidified connections and watched friendships (old and new) blossom thanks to the ability to be virtually involved in one and other’s lives — as support systems, cheerleaders, shoulders to cry on, people to laugh with. At the hardest time in my life following my brother’s suicide, my Facebook friends embraced me, and were able to go out through my brother’s network to make sure those who were connected to him knew about his passing. I don’t know how I could have managed without it, and continue to be amazed and the love and support I’m shown through this network.
- I am grateful for my furry family, who teach me a little bit about unconditional love and selflessness every day. Whether I like it or not!
- I am grateful that, more than two years later, I continue to receive so much encouragement and feedback about my little old blog here, Life After Normal. The response has amazed me and I am consistently overwhelmed at the love and support I receive — from old friends, new friends, and strangers who happened to stumble across my musings one way or another. Thank you for allowing me to have this outlet to try to find my voice and to figure out how to be the authentic ME. Whatever that is.
Happy Thanksgiving, amigos. I am grateful.
