Sunday Sunshine: I'm Bright! I'm Strong!

We human beings have a tendency to focus on our shortcomings and to name them in our heads -- often: I'm not brave enough. I'm not smart enough. I'm not talented enough. I'm not tall enough. I'm not old enough. I'm not young enough. I'm not thin enough. I can't, I can't, I'm not, I'm not.

Don't listen to those negative thoughts. Shoo them away and don't give them space in your head any longer.

Instead, fill your head with affirming thoughts. Start by naming one thing that you like about yourself. Now name another. Then another. And another. 

You are a gifted being. Celebrate who you are and where you are right now.

Today, this week, say these words to yourself: I am strong! I am bright! I am right where I’m supposed to be!

Sunday Sunshine: Speak Your Truth

How many times have you said yes when you wanted to say no? There are times when it's hard to find your true voice, the voice that represents your deepest-held values. Perhaps you don't want to be seen as contrary or difficult or, heaven forbid, to stand alone in your opinion.

Yes, there's risk when you say what you believe. But there is also risk if you keep those thoughts to yourself.

Be strong. Be brave. Be true to yourself and your values. Speak your truth. 

Do so respectfully. 

Do so quietly. 

Live your values through your carefully considered words and respectful actions.

The words you have to say are important. Give voice to them.

Today, this week: Be true to you. Have the courage to speak your truth.

Fresh Thoughts for Your Monday: Have Faith and Keep Going

The road isn’t always clear. It’s okay to check your surroundings and get your bearings. But, don’t let that stop you. Keep going.

When the way ahead is unclear, rely on faith and have confidence that the path will present itself when the time is right.

Today, this week: Stay strong. Stay focused. Keep going. The fulfillment of your dreams and ideas is waiting for you.

A Cat Named Courage

I recently met a cat named Courage.  His human companion told me that the cat normally was fearful when strangers came around and would immediately run and hide.  For some reason that day, Courage and I hit it off.  He stayed put in his little kitty bed and allowed me to pet him and scratch him under his chin. He never once ran away to hide.  Instead, he seemed content and curious at the same time, comfortable enough with me to stay put, stretch out and take me in.  Courage the cat got me to questioning the depth of my own courage.  When confronted with something new, do I usually run and hide or do I see it for what it is and allow myself to become comfortable with it?  We all have opportunities to look fear in the eye and display our own courage.  I think of the many wonderful people in my life who do so with grace and dignity, and I realize how much I want to display those same characteristics.  So, on this day, I will take a lesson from Courage the cat and see newness and change as the opportunities they really are.