You can't always get what you want...you know the rest.

So today I realized that this last year is exactly what I asked for. I just did not know it while I was going through it. I did say I needed a break. I got it. I wanted to try running my own training consulting business. I kind of sort of did it. I needed to do some shaking up of some existing notions- Well, I got a huge dose of humility and patience; two things we cannot live without and need to be reminded of often. I also observed my stress management abilities in action (good and bad). I said I would not take the wrong job and hopefully in the next month I will have the right one. I am following my passion. I may have to move, but the places I am looking are very good spots for me.

Following your bliss is a tough road as we all know. The stress can easily deter us back to where we feel safe. Persistence and bravery is a must. Though having those skills does not mean we will actually execute well. Some days people say to me, "Oh, you are doing so great. I would have caved by now!" Thank you. I have caved, several times- you just haven't seen it or I lied with a big smile on my face. Fake it 'till you make it really does work.

What has saved me from public caving? Private caving with family and friends, a lovely yoga retreat for 5 days, training for a 1/2 marathon at the suggestion of my friend, blind support from Majid, and a new routine I adopted from my Dad.

• Each morning read a little something inspiring and write to that OR
  
• Write 10 things I am grateful for
• Write my 10 intentions for the day

Here are mine for Thursday, May 29, 2008:

Thankful for:

1. My nephews
2. My fingers and toes
3. My health
4. God and the universe
5. Family and friends
6. Good books you can get lost in when you need a reality break
7. Breathing
8. I have $ in the bank
9. I live in a beautiful place
10. Laughing

Intentions:

1. Be aware
2. Be flexible- like a palm tree swaying, rather than a stiff tree
   
3. Try not to judge- people are doing the best they can with the knowledge they have
   
4. Look up
5. Be proactive- just do it
   
6. Don't take things so personally- lighten up
   
7. Give
8. Enlighten where you can, but make sure people are asking for it
9. Forgive
10. Be honest with yourself
    

I am glad this post is available when I see the need to use it. Thanks for listening. Signing off.