The Summer of Courage

A funny thing happened while I was emailing someone who I thought was “very important” and “inspiring” to me and my development. 
I wrote to her that: 

Moreover, I don’t know if it is because I am getting older, but I am starting to realize what kind of life I want, and I have realized which things I prefer and want in my professional and personal life.

And I actually meant it. This is not to say that I lie in my writing (which I don’t do), but I actually felt confident in my choices. First the time, I have vocalized what I wanted out of life, to myself, without that hesitation that begins so often in a young girl’s life

I want that one, but I mean if you don’t like that, I can change my opinion. 

I am not changing my opinion for no one. That is not to say I am not flexible. But my self-worth, self-esteem, my active role in my life is non-negotiable. 

You can have me, and we can work together, but I will never let you decide my happiness. 

I was watching The Conversation with Amanda  de Cadenet, and Miley Cyrus made the point that, “I always think of when I do things, would I be friends with myself?” 

Frankly, this new (improved) version of me—which isn’t through a new makeup look or relationship, but through taking stock of my life—-is a friend I would want. 

Someone who fights for her happiness, a driven and happy person, someone who still has spirit, sass, and a undying passion for her dreams. 

I know of many women who have inspired me….. who drip into my work like good seasoning…who continue to make me realize the power we have in ourselves. But can we also inspire ourselves to do better. Can the relationship we have with ourselves highlight the love we have for humanity and life? 

Can we be honest with ourselves and act with courage and conviction, look at our lives honestly, and do things that keep our principles, preferences and passions in line? 

Let’s all be brave. 

I am sorry New York, I didn’t mean to.

I have been cheating on New York. 

I know what you are thinking, is this some Carrie Bradshaw type shit with a “Mr.Big?”  Alas, it is not, but the feeling of regret and hope for another looms large in my heart. To say that I have fallen out of love with my City isn’t really the right way to describe it. It more of a feeling of longing, longing for the old times. When things——when shit——wasn’t so complicated. 

Now I have my health, my family and my friends. So no this will not be a post on the “sadness” of my life. 

But the reason why we cheat, perhaps one of the reasons, is that we can put all of our emotions, dreams and desires into the what if, rather than the what is. 

New York City for some will always remind some out of towners as the place where dreams are made. If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere. 

But what if you are here. What if you have seen every sight to hold in New York. The reality of reality can be soul crushing especially when your heart told you of different outcomes only yesteryear. 

And Yet. 

While LA has me lusting, and London has called my name, and anywhere esle has nudged me in the quiet of nights, speaking in hushed tones, “come on, how long were you really intending to stay in NYC. Weren’t you the girl contemplating world travel, with your (future baby) on your back and passion stirring in your heart, pouring your soul to each and every person you meet.  

Even with all those temptations, NYC has my heart. For twenty-seven years, she has held my heart right next to BK, and then as I grew, Tribeca and Jamaica Queens came into focus. Each year brought more strings, more roots to cement my love for this ruthless town. Each year brought more uncertainly to change: why go outside when the love is here for you? 

I really want to work it out. I really want to stay in NYC. These bonds they are like language. If you don’t pay attention to them, suddenly the words and emotions become hazy and you forget what it means. As if the cliche weren’t well worn, like a housewife looking back on her wedding, I just want things to be different. 

To God- FROM THE DYING to THE LIVING

ijaimekingwordsfallfrommymouth:

Here is something that was sent to me my a good friend that I wanted to pass along regarding New Years Resolutions.  I pass along to you as a consideration for everyday beyond our New Year and the years to come.

Here are the top five regrets of those in the process of dying from a book by Bronnie Ware. Having presented a Resolution Spa Day to begin the year I thought we all could benefit by pausing to integrate the wisdom of those who are processing what is most valuable about living in this world into resolve for what is to become this day, this year and beyond.

1. I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.

•  
  •  
    •  
      •  
        •  
          •  
            •  
              
              
              

2. I wish I didn’t work so hard.

•  
  •  
    •  
      •  
        •  
          •  
            •  
              
              
              

3. I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings.

•  
  •  
    •  
      •  
        •  
          •  
            •  
              
              
              

4. I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends.

•  
  •  
    •  
      •  
        •  
          •  

5. I wish that I had let myself be happier.

•  
  •  
    •  
      •  
        •  

From Jaime to my dear friends- I wish that all of you live your lives filled with the loving and beauty that resides within your heart.  Let your light shine and know that you are loved beyond your physicality that you are adored for the divinity that is your Soul and know that you are a dream come true, a success of your every breath that passes your lips.

•  
  •  
    •  
      •  
        •  
          •  
            •  
              
              
              
              

The Scarlett O'Hara Group: 200 Blog Posts We Hope You Write:

scarlettoharagroup:

This isn’t the first list and it certainly won’t be the last list. Are you looking for ways to build a business or personal blog? Don’t struggle with writer’s block. These post ideas run the range from corporate topics to personal relationships. Happy writing!

1. Write a letter to yourself at…