In the past two weeks, I’ve had more doctors’ appointments and tests than in the past two years combined—some routine, some not. It all leaves me very aware that gravity and time have claimed territory that I once thought unconquerable.
The reality of my mortality spins around in my own head as I struggle to fathom that once I am gone the world will continue without me. Even more mind-boggling is the thought of eternity.
During this time of reflection, it has become more real to me than ever that it doesn’t matter where you’re born. It doesn’t matter where you will die. But, what matters most is how you live the days God has given you. No one thinks about that more than people who are terminally ill. As I pondered these things, I found myself looking into their writings and share below those thoughts that have most impacted me as I strive to live with purpose and impact:
Remember Your Blessings: I grew up hearing count your blessings, but I don’t quite believe in that practice. I think counting them fails to weigh their significance. And we all know that as soon as we count what is right in our lives, the temptation to count what isn’t is present. I believe in finding my blessings and savoring them. Focusing on the quality, rather than the quantity, inspires an attitude of increased gratitude.
Dreams Should Be Pursued: We leave so much joy and fulfillment on the table in the name of responsibility. It is true that being responsible for what we already have qualifies us to receive more. I also know that our hearts’ dreams are our lifeblood. We should be in active pursuit of our dreams on some level at all times. A workshop or class may be the only space we can honor them, but that doesn’t matter. Keeping our dreams alive, keeps us alive!
Don’t Check Your Approval Rating: True freedom is being at peace with God and self! Trusted friends and family provide invaluable insights and help point us to true wisdom. But too many are trapped in the struggle for other people’s approval. There will always be faultfinders and exposing our spirits to their critical ways can be dangerous. Always remember that love is the qualification for speaking into someone else’s life. So, don’t just let anyone speak into yours!
Watch the Baggage You Claim: Everyone has issues! Most often they rear their ugly heads in our relationships leading to pain and stress. We must be clear on whose issues are at play and how. Fixing yourself won’t fix the problem when what you really need is to redefine boundaries and relationships.
Do Your Work! We will all leave a legacy. The best way to make sure that it is the one we want is to live in a way that ensures it. List five things you want people to say about you in death. Then, focus on developing those qualities in life.
Define Your Wealth! Every day affirm, “Life is beautiful! I embrace each day with joy and gratitude!”
Named the “North America’s Next Greatest Speaker” by eWomenNetwork, Coach Felicia is a Certified Executive Coach who empowers her clients to “Turn their Worth into Wealth” as she partners with them to DISCOVER their WORTH, DO their WORK and DEFINE their WEALTH. Get more insight, download the FREE “8 Choices Winners Must Make!” seminar MP3 at www.coachfelicia.com!
