Celebrations

I spent last night wrapped in the amazing warmth of a new kitchen surrounded by the blessings of some of my closest friends. It was a very significant occasion that almost didn't occur for a very interesting reason. A reason that became the topic of conversation into the wee hours of the night.

   One of the most brilliant people in my life is going through a very tough life transition. One that had taken a lot of courage and let's face it, grit to get through. She is now on her own, with a young son. She taken control of a very difficult set of circumstances and has landed squarely on her own two feet. She has a safe place to live, all the people in her life rallied around her and offered everything from linens to kitchenware to gift certificates to help her get started. She was overwhelmed by the people who stood up to encourage and support her. But when I suggested a housewarming party she was very reluctant.

   One of the themes in my own life is that I often downplay my accomplishments. Feeling somehow embarassed rather than proud of that which I have completed or initiated. Birthdays for me suck! I love other people's birthdays, but my own is always a bit of a manoeuver for me to get through and it has nothing to do with age! I am not comfortable being the center of attention when the event is about me! I can speak in front of a crowd, I can sing at weddings and funerals but those events are not about me! I am simply entertainment.

    I spoke to my friend, and as I spoke I realized I should myself be listening to the speech I was giving. I told her that each small step in life is worth celebrating. Why do we feel like we need to get a pHD before we feel worthy of being celebrated? That the very act of gathering would be good for all of us, including her. That life is made up of those little moments. Acts that remind us how beautiful and special we are to those around us. Today most of us seem so caught up in the day to day acts of living that we have forgotten to mark many of the important things that we do. Those things are what create the memories that we carry with us. The rest, is just the act of living.

    If you are like me, and love celebrating other people, think for a moment. Think of the joy of planning, anticipating the look on another person's face. It is intoxicating isn't it? To celebrate someone you love. To surprise them with a random gift or a special moment. Now think, that by not allowing them to do the same, you are actually denying them that same amazing feeling. You are stopping love from flowing into your life. Would you ever knowingly do that? You are blocking the flow of receive. In order to find balance, you must become a conduit, and not a blockade. Allow the giving and receiving to flow through you and not get stuck on one or the other.

    It was a magic evening. The topic changed a hundred times, we laughed and we cried into the early hours of the morning. I was reminded of the wonder of friendship. Your joys are multiplied, and your sorrows divided. Gentle hands in the night to comfort and console and smiles and laughter that would bannish darkness from any corner with the gaiety of the din. The greatest blessing in my life has been my friends. And I was reminded again last night how common our journeys are, how many roads we walk together. And how very much less fearful it is when you see how many souls surround you with love and light on your journey.

    May this day remind you that you are invaluable. That every moment, there is someone who wishes they were you. Celebrate often, and count your blessings. I know your cup overfloweth. Mine does.

Make your life a song of gratitude and watch your blessings multiply. You are worthy, little soul.

Love,

Kathryn