I like to think back on the people who have invested in my life … those who’ve encouraged me, supported me, inspired and challenged me. Those rare souls who don’t try to fix me, but just listen and try to understand.
Those people who have been willing to be vulnerable in sharing their lives with me. And those who quietly and consistently cheer me on from the sidelines … always dependable and always there in the background.
It’s a good time to stop and recognise the value they add to my life and to be grateful. Time to let them know they are appreciated and to say thank you.
In the busyness of life it’s easy to take people for granted, children, parents, siblings, friends, coach, pastor, hairdresser, doctor, teacher …
For a number of years I had a massage therapist who not only released the tension in my neck and shoulders and helped keep me physically fit, but she was one of those people you discover once in a while who was always present in the moment. Our conversations were often deep and encouraging and I always went away richer for having spent time with her.
She was just one of many people who blessed my life. The beginning of the year seems the perfect time to let them know that their investment in my life hasn't gone unnoticed. Sometimes it’s a phone call but more often a card or letter to put into words what I feel in my heart.
What about you - who has invested in your life in the year just lived?
My sincere thanks to YOU for reading my blog ... you have been an encouragement to me. I began with great hesitation but have enjoyed sharing my thoughts and images and hope they have inspired you in some small way. Without you to read and share my blog posts they would remain nothing more than words on a "page".
I hope the year ahead holds enough challenges to extend you, enough laughter and tears to keep you tender, enough fun to keep you childlike and endless opportunities to love and be compassionate, open-hearted and open-handed.
Happy New Year!