About 5 years ago I moved across the country to a small town where I didn’t know anyone. Through the mess of it all, I’ve realized it was the greatest thing that could have happened to me. Let’s be clear because it hasn’t been a smooth ride. For context, it was a very random and unexpected move. I worked 6-7 days a week to try to save up. It was the year of the pandemic. The news upset my family (rightfully so). Fast forward a bit. My long-term relationship fell apart. The weather was extremely cold and windy. It was frightening living on my own for the first time. I felt the most alone I ever had. Somehow, it provided me with the opportunity to reflect on who I was. I also reflected on who I want to be. I splurged in the freedom at first, which ultimately lead to unfulfillment. But still, I can wake up at 3AM and eat cookies. I don’t wake anyone. No one gives me the side eye. Wow what an incredible feeling. Anyways, here’s my point: This was the first time in my life I didn’t have the influence of family, friends, or relationships telling me what to do. My life was truly mine. Fast forward even more to today and I feel more aligned with my purpose than ever before. I am more connected to God than ever before. I still have fears, anxieties, and desires for more (see the articles from two weeks ago). I believe we forget to slow down. We should appreciate not only where we are now, but how far we have come. We should also appreciate all the obstacles we conquered on the way. Sometimes we forget to give ourselves grace because we continue to raise the bar. If you know me, you’ll know I am all about personal growth, but it is equally important to stop and be thankful. We should thank God every day and we should thank ourselves every day. We are the ones that get up and make it happen, alongside God. God can work through us if we let him. We are a team.
Today I met someone new at a job interview I went to, a fellow creative. The questions she was asking really made me slow down and appreciate my life over the last couple years. This is after all the peaceful life I once prayed for. Even writing this I am struggling to not explain that I have big goals, and I am working towards them. Slowing down, resting, and taking a break does not mean that this is the final destination. It doesn’t mean you are giving up or that your dreams won’t come true. Its purpose is to eliminate clutter from your mind, unnecessary thoughts or fears, to be present and enjoy the moment.
A couple days ago, I decided not to turn on the tv. Instead, I enjoyed listening to a peaceful frequency. As I sat there doing nothing (my favourite), all the usual thoughts of what I should be doing instead came up. I let them slip away. Eventually, my mind got quiet. I started to feel light and peaceful. My mind started envisioning some great memories.
The most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen is the moon and the moonlight reflection that dances on the water.
The most beautiful thing I’ve ever felt is love.
The best food I’ve ever had was my Nonnas homemade pasta.
The most I’ve ever felt alive was walking alongside the Irish Sea on top of a cliff. The wind and water hit my face. There was nothing but hills of green in sight.
These beautiful moments might not happen every day, but they sure make life worth living. It’s only when you slow down that you can truly appreciate it. You don’t need extravagance or the riches of the world. I promise you, at the end, when you look back at your life, it will be the greatest movie you’ve ever seen. Filled with love, laughter, great memories, and soul evolution.
I encourage you to answer these prompts:
What is,
The most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen..
The most beautiful thing you’ve ever felt..
The best food you’ve ever tried..
The most alive you’ve ever felt..
Don’t forget to treasure how beautiful and rare this life is.
With love,
Jessie
The Malleable Path.