“Nothing feels heavier than unsaid words.”
Speaking from the heart can be uncomfortable. It makes us vulnerable, open to potential criticism, and we can even feel socially awkward while doing it.
Expressing our feelings and letting others know how much they mean to us is becoming more acceptable and yet it can still feel strange and unnatural.
So why do we feel that way? I’m still trying to figure that one out…
Life is so unpredictable and changes literally moment to moment. And yet most of the time we find ourselves, like hamsters on a wheel, going through the motions of our daily lives and losing focus on how precious the people around us are.
The simple act of conversation and spending time together, really being present in the moment, and letting people know their value…it shouldn’t be that difficult.
And yet it is…
I was reminded of that reality several times in the past few weeks… when I was watching my favorite television shows, reading (and listening) to my current books I am working on and in the phone calls, emails and texts I was a part of…
Perhaps one activity this week in particular struck me the most…I was going through boxes and sorting out personal items when I came across a letter I wrote my mother ten years ago. In it, I expressed my love for her and I think it was my attempt to not have anything left unsaid. My mother-in-law had just passed away after her battle with Alzheimers and I felt a sense of urgency in communicating my feelings to my Mom.
My mother was one of the few people in my life where “unsaid words” were really not an issue…She was my best friend and confidant and her unconditional love for me, for all of us, was a constant in our lives…
Nevertheless, I wrote her the letter and she kept it by her bedside. Turns out that unsaid words really do matter and those words mattered to her.
Maybe I am just thinking more about “unsaid words” because I feel I need to literally do more of that.
My personal health is leading me on yet another journey and in a few weeks, I will need to have surgery. Many times health situations force us to stop, think and refocus our priorities. I know that has been my experience.
Soon I will be off of the hamster wheel for a while, recuperating, adjusting, healing…and hopefully being more thankful and feeling blessed…
Blessed to have family and friends who help me whenever they can…Blessed with a wonderful, part-time job that I love - working in a place where I make a difference and enjoy the people I make a difference with…
Never underestimate the importance of being around people who love you - whether it is in your personal life or at work…
What really matters most? For me the answer is simple - people.
So give the hugs, share the smiles, enjoy some good laughs and spread love and kindness…and, whenever you get the chance, don’t forget to say the unsaid words…
What do you think?
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Tranquil Moments…
I asked my niece, Jennifer Malphy, if she could share some of her nature photos with my newsletter audience. Each week I will feature a new photo. Here is this week’s:
This week’s Smile video…
Family tragedy nearly derailed Chris Rowland's college goals. But through all the missteps and blown opportunities, Pete Kadens stood by his side. Steve Hartman has their story in "On the Road."
#believe #smilevideos #spreadkindnessandlove
What I am watching…
This time of year many television series are ending their seasons and, in some cases, the series themselves.
One of my favorite recent discoveries of the past few months was Young Sheldon. Thanks to Netflix, I was able to watch the series from the beginning and this week, the series came to an end.
Few fictional character deaths affect me personally and as a BIg Bang Theory fan, I was aware that Sheldon’s father dies during Sheldon’s teenage years, but the way the episode was written and filmed, I was caught off guard (as are most people when sudden death happens).
Perhaps the best description came at the end of that episode.
If you get a chance, watch Young Sheldon on Netflix. It is not only funny but the characters, like in a well-written book, will stick with you…and that’s a good thing.
What I am reading…
I have been reading a very useful, thought-provoking self-help book. It is entitled The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook. If you are looking for positive meditations and writing exercises, this would be a great book for you!
The Amazon description is as follows: “Are you kinder to others than you are to yourself? More than a thousand research studies show the benefits of being a supportive friend to yourself, especially in times of need. This science-based workbook offers a step-by-step approach to breaking free of harsh self-judgments and impossible standards in order to cultivate emotional well-being. In a convenient large-size format, the book is based on the authors' groundbreaking eight-week Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) program, which has helped tens of thousands of people worldwide. It is packed with guided meditations (with audio downloads); informal practices to do anytime, anywhere; exercises; and vivid stories of people using the techniques to address relationship stress, weight and body image issues, health concerns, anxiety, and other common problems. The seeds of self-compassion already lie within you--learn how you can uncover this powerful inner resource and transform your life.”
Time to relax…
Looking for a relaxing background on your television or something to watch while you meditate. I loved using these in my school library between classes. Beautiful music and kaleidoscopes… Enjoy!
Comedy Lift…
I love to share funny cartoons or memes with friends and family. Who doesn’t need to smile? Here’s this week’s Comedy Lift…
Music Moments
Music inspires me in many ways. Here’s Lean on Me by Bill Withers....Enjoy!
Quote of the week
Until next week. Please remember…Begin and end each day with a grateful heart…and always, always be kind….