This post is long overdue. So many unfortunate mishaps, events, deaths, tribulations and tragedies have encompassed the year 2013. For me and for many others, it's been a struggle at times to get out of bed and face a new dawn. When I lost my darling cousin, David Swimmer, it all became so vividly clear to me--HOLY SHIT, I'm alive, healthy, successful, vital. And if you're currently reading this, YOU ARE TOO.
I saw an incredible short film online recently called, 'COLD', that was posted by one of my pals, Moti Yona, on YouTube. Shot in Toronto, this 25 minute film accurately depicts how chilling this town really is. People don't smile, anymore. People usually stick to what they know and who they know. They get so comfortable in their mundane routines that they leave no room for new experiences. It's so rare to see genuine compassion for humanity, lately. While watching this piece, I actually shed some tears and it left me feeling sorry for the folks that inhabit my hometown.
I'm finally going to lay it on the line, folks. I will not 'sugar-coat', nor will I avoid my true feelings. As a living, breathing, fully functional woman, I have to say that life is cruel and very unkind. Occasionally, I feel utterly gripped by sadness. Losing my cousin David left an indelible mark on my soul--and it has forced me to turn over a new leaf. With autumn approaching, I feel a tangible loss; not only in my physical world, but in my spiritual existence, as well. I mourn the loss of summer because of what it represents to me--carefree days, balmy nights, relaxing in my backyard with the warm sun kissing my skin...
And now, the introduction to WINTER--the season I have to tolerate, year after year. Most assuredly, it will rear its dreary, slush-filled head. And SO WHAT? I'm alive to see it, for crying out loud. I GET TO EXPERIENCE FOUR SEASONS IN CANADA. I get to live another day. I get to work in a career that I'm in love with. I get to come home to a man that I'm crazy about. I get to spend time with my family. I get another chance every single day to be better than yesterday. And winter season or no, from now on, I'm going to put on a happy face. I'm going to thank the universe for giving me this body, this brain, this ability to live without chronic pain. ANYONE who has lost a loved one, a friend, a relative, has to realize this and thank G-d for what they have. Because sadly, it doesn't last.
IN ESSENCE, I URGE YOU TO BUCK UP. Whatever you need to do to get motivated and face a brand new day, DO IT. Don't wait for opportunities to fall into your lap. Make it happen, because you have the ability to put one foot in front of the other. You have a mouth. You have blood pumping through your veins. Life certainly may be hard, or you may have hit a rough patch, or you may be feeling depressed and/or out-of-sorts--but basically, you are breathing and HERE on earth. You get to see a sunrise. You get to see things in Technicolor. Not everyone has that luxury.
I love my life. Never have I felt so empowered. Never have I loved so deeply.
It's your turn. Start to fall in love with your life.. Sure, life sucks sometimes. But mostly, it's the sweetest gift you will ever possess. Take hold of the reins and drive your chariot to the brightest light you can find. Let everyone see you in all your glory. LIVE LIFE PASSIONATELY.
Do not hesitate to harness every ounce of goodness that comes your way, from here on out.
