60plus&lovinglife – Page 4 – 60plus and loving life

The Covenant that ties…

By 60plus&lovinglife November 24, 2023February 29, 2024 0

What is family? Who do you count as family? Is it just blood ties or do you have friends that you consider family?

This time of year we are close to Christmas and in the US it is Thanksgiving time. Both occasions are all about family, times of love & happiness, but can also be fraught with conflict and discord.

My daughter is my family and we love each other dearly. I also have family on the other side of the country. Family for me includes close friends. One friend hosts an “orphans” Christmas breakfast at the beach each year (we live in Australia, so Christmas is peak summertime for us!).

Having been married twice, I also have extended family. My first husband’s sister is someone I will always consider family, even though our connection is no longer via the marriage bond, she is someone I hold dear. My second husband and I are still friends (years after we divorced) and always will be and I remained close with his mother until she passed.

A previous partner, however, had a very tumultuous and toxic family. Always feuding with each other. Always threatening each other and sending abusive messages to each other. They thought that was normal. I was both appalled and aghast when shown the vitriol that was sent back and forth. It was ugly!

Vicious name calling and I mean vicious, no foul language was off limits! Abuse & threats were sent back & forth in equal measure. I had never in all my life witnessed such toxic behaviour, ever!! And I hope I never do again. Even reading such sickening messages was emotionally damaging and they were not aimed at me.

No-one in my life, family or friends, have ever spoken to me or me to them in the horrid and abusive way of this mob. It was insane! They have behaved like this for many, many years and amongst themselves they have normalized this abusive and damaging behavior. None of them cared about the damage they inflicted on each other, it was harrowing to witness. My then partner was regularly brought to tears of grief and despair – then he would fire back equally vile messages in retaliation! It was nuts!

Those people made it very clear that I was NOT family, regardless of my being in a relationship with one of theirs for some time. Praise be for that I say! Never would I wish to be known as belonging to such toxic people. They were all big on “blood is thicker than water” – clearly an excuse for toxic and damaging behaviour towards each other. The kicker is that they (and many other people) have got that expression totally wrong. They think it means ties of blood/kin are stronger than ties of “water” or non-kin.

However, the actual expression is “The blood of the Covenant is thicker than the water of the womb.” As in bonds that you’ve made by choice are more important than the people that you are bound to by the water of the womb. Here’s a link that explains the original Covenant quote.

I hope however you celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas that you are surrounded by loving, kind and genuine folk who care for you as you care for them, whether they are ties of the womb or Covenant of blood. 💕

imagecredit:Margienance

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Believe in yourself! It’s important…

By 60plus&lovinglife November 9, 2023 0

In the noise and busyness of life’s challenges and uncertainties, there exists a subtle yet mighty force that has the power to shape our destinies – the belief in oneself.

It’s a whisper in our hearts, an unwavering spark that, when nurtured, can transform doubts into determination, obstacles into opportunities, and dreams into reality.

Today I am going to delve into the profound impact of believing in oneself, exploring how it serves as the guiding light that illuminates our path through the darkest of times, unlocking the brilliance of our own potential.

Believing in oneself is a quiet flame, one that doesn’t boast its presence or demand attention. Instead, it burns gently within, fueling the fire of determination.

It’s a source of inner strength, often underestimated, yet paramount to our growth and success. This silent power provides the resolve to chase our dreams and confront the challenges that stand in our way.

We’ve all faced moments when doubts cloud our judgment and sow the seeds of hesitation. The beauty of self-belief is that it acts as a counterbalance to these doubts.

When you believe in yourself, you cultivate the conviction needed to push forward despite the uncertainty. Doubts become stepping stones, propelling you toward your goals instead of holding you back.

Obstacles are a natural part of life’s journey. However, the lens of self-belief allows us to see them in a different light.

Instead of roadblocks, they become opportunities for growth and learning. With self-belief, you are better equipped to face challenges head-on, finding creative solutions, and emerging stronger and wiser on the other side.

Believing in yourself is the catalyst that can turn dreams into tangible realities. It fuels the persistence required to pursue those aspirations, even in the face of adversity.

With unwavering self-belief, you take action, make the necessary sacrifices, and persist until your dreams materialize. It’s the force that can change the trajectory of your life.

In the darkest of times, when life’s challenges seem insurmountable, it’s self-belief that lights the way.

It’s the beacon that guides you through the shadows, keeping you focused on your goals and inspiring you to persevere. No matter how tough the journey, your belief in yourself can lead you toward a brighter future.

Each one of us possesses a unique brilliance, a potential waiting to be fully realized. Believing in yourself is the key to unlocking that potential.

It’s the reminder that you are capable, valuable, and deserving of success. When you trust in your abilities, you allow your brilliance to shine, not only benefiting yourself but also inspiring others to do the same.

In a world often filled with noise and self-doubt, the quiet flame of self-belief remains a powerful force for transformation.

It’s the unwavering spark within that empowers us to navigate life’s challenges and chase our dreams with determination. Through self-belief, we discover the resilience to turn doubts into determination, embrace obstacles as opportunities, and turn our wildest dreams into reality.

Remember, you possess the brilliance to illuminate your own path and inspire others along the way. So, nurture that quiet flame within, and let it light the way to your boundless potential.

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musings about ageing

Who am I? A year of learning about myself, more than I ever thought I could be!

By 60plus&lovinglife November 2, 2023February 29, 2024 0

I caught up with a good friend of mine for lunch today. We always talk about random things and deep dive on any issues we might have and untangle thoughts and feelings to get at the core of things.

It’s wonderful to have friends like that and she is an absolute gem!

We talked about my health which has been a bit of a dumpster fire this year. My friend talked about my identity as a healthy and fit woman. She is correct, my identity is very much wrapped around health & fitness and being a role model for women in their 60s.

Heck, one of the reasons I started this blog was to talk about health & fitness and how to stay well as one ages!

My family of origin has and is riddled with heart disease, metabolic illness, and COPD.

My whole life and part of my motivation to stay healthy and fit was to keep, primarily, heart disease at bay and I can say I have been overwhelmingly successful in this endeavour.

So, you can imagine my utter shock when cancer decided to knock on the door earlier this year. Specifically, breast cancer. No-one in my family has had breast cancer and it took some time to wrap my head around it all and what that meant for my health, fitness, and self-identity.

This year has had enough plot twists to write a book about. On top of the breast cancer, I was diagnosed with non-Hodgin Lymphoma, Lymphocytic Colitis and then Sudden Sensorineuro Hearing loss in my left ear – meaning I will need surgery to be fitted with a Cochlear Implant.

In amongst all of these hectic challenges, I have kept my spirits up, dealing with one thing at a time. I have kept up my exercise regimen when I could.

There were some weeks when recovering from a procedure or two, that I have had to take a break to rest and recuperate. I have had to take the time to allow my body and spirit time to rest and recover and to get better.

If I couldn’t go for a run, I’d go for a brisk walk. If I couldn’t go to the gym to do weights training, I’d pick up an extra yoga or Pilates class. Going for a swim is always a nice option, gentle, weight bearing and slow. Dancing is a constant too.

If it was all too much, then resting, reading, walking my dog, and spending gentle time with family and my friends were the order of the day!

I also had some emotional turmoil to deal with this year. A person whose sole purpose in life seemed to be to relentlessly bully me via my blog and to get his minion to do likewise.

Generally, I am very much of the opinion that bullies are just cowards that if you ignore them, they eventually go away. But this one was unrelentingly persistent.

In the end I got rid of them, but it took some work to do so and if they ever rear their heads again, I will go straight to the Magistrate and get an AVO. I have all the written evidence and witnesses of in-person bullying and harassment. Plus, nasty sh*t sent to friends of mine, that has also been kept as evidence.

All up the year has presented some unique issues for me to deal with and overcome.

But you know what? I am resilient, I am strong, I fully believe my fitness has enabled me to deal with the health issues effectively. Exercise and eating well also helps with emotional upheaval.

The other thing I have in my favour is a supportive family and the best friends and community. They literally wrap themselves around me like a warm hug!

I am blessed and honoured and humbled by the love and support I have received this year.

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all about the dog

Paws of Resilience: A Journey Through Cruciate Ligament Surgery

By 60plus&lovinglife October 19, 2023 0

In the world of wagging tails and furry companions, life’s twists and turns can sometimes lead to unexpected challenges.

This year, my beloved dog faced one such hurdle when he needed cruciate ligament surgery on his left hind leg.

The journey was fraught with risks and uncertainties, but it also highlighted the incredible benefits of a supportive community, the beauty of well-wishers, and the boundless love that surrounds us.

My dog is more than just a pet; he’s a cherished member of the family, a loyal companion who has stood by my side through thick and thin.

When we received the news that he needed this surgery, my heart ached with worry, not only for his health but also for the difficult road ahead.

Cruciate ligament surgery comes with its own set of risks, including post-surgery complications and a lengthy recovery period.

The benefits, however, are worth every ounce of concern. The surgery promises to restore my dog’s mobility and alleviate his pain, allowing him to live a life of comfort and happiness once more.

Whilst the recovery period is long and challenging, the outcome is a testament to the remarkable advancements in veterinary care and the potential for our furry friends to overcome adversity.

What truly astonished and humbled me throughout this journey was the outpouring of support from well-wishers near and far.

Friends, family, and even those we’ve touched through our volunteer work rallied around us. For over a decade, my dog and I have dedicated our time to serving the community, visiting hospitals, kindergartens, schools, retirement homes, and dementia facilities.

We’ve seen firsthand the impact of a warm, furry presence on people’s lives, and now the community has come together to give back and show us just how loved we are.

The kindness and generosity of people, some of whom we’ve never even met, have been a shining light in our lives. The support, both emotional and financial, has been a beacon of hope during the darkest days of our journey.

The community’s rallying spirit reminds us that there are beautiful, kind-hearted individuals in this world who will go out of their way to make a difference.

These experiences reinforce the notion that love knows no boundaries. Whether it’s the bond between a person and their four-legged companion or the connection forged through shared acts of kindness, the human spirit is capable of remarkable things.

It’s a testament to the beauty of empathy, the power of unity, and the extraordinary capacity of the heart to love and care for others.

As I navigate this journey alongside my furry friend, I am eternally grateful and humbled by the overwhelming support we have received. The recovery may be challenging, but the love and kindness we’ve encountered along the way have made it all worthwhile.

To everyone who has extended a helping hand, offered a kind word, or shared in our journey, thank you from the bottom of my heart.

You’ve not only touched our lives but have also reminded us that the world is full of warmth, generosity, and love, waiting to embrace us when we need it most.

Much love to Dr John and the team at Riverton/Rossmoyne Vet Clinic❤️

x-ray of dog leg with plate and pins — x-ray of plate and pins

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Motorcycles, friendship & support…

By 60plus&lovinglife October 8, 2023February 29, 2024 0

My friend rides a Harley. Today we went on a ride with the Perth chapter of the Harley Davidson Motorcycle Club for a breast cancer fundraiser.

It was awesome! The sound of hundreds of motobikes growling and roaring down the highway was incredible.

People were lining the streets of Fremantle to watch the bikes go by, waving and cheering.

These people are the absolute best! They have my back and they are so supportive and protective. And there is something super special about seeing big, tough biker dudes all dressed up in pink in support of women’s health! Love it!

If you see a group of motobikes roaring by and everyone is geared up in pink, wave and smile and join in the love, care and support.

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The Liberating Act of Closing the Door on Negativity: Embracing a Life of Positivity

By 60plus&lovinglife October 5, 2023 0

Life is a journey – some of it difficult, some easy. Our path twists & turns and occasionally doubles back on itself. The people that we choose to allow into our lives can have a profound impact on our life journey and our emotional wellbeing.

In my journey, I’ve come to appreciate the profound benefits that come from firmly closing the door on negative people, those who emit low vibrations and seldom seek the help they need.

Instead, I’ve made the conscious choice to surround myself with loving, kind, warm, giving, and positive individuals who uplift my spirit and nurture my well-being. The transformation has been nothing short of extraordinary, and I’m eager to share the profound impact of this decision on my life.

Negativity has a way of seeping into our lives like a slow, creeping fog. It can be subtle, at first, like a whisper in the back of our minds, but if left unchecked, it can envelop us in a shroud of doubt, anxiety, and unhappiness.

These are the low vibrational energies that often emanate from negative people—individuals who may be struggling with their own demons but rarely seek the help they need.

For far too long, I allowed these negative forces to infiltrate my life, draining my energy and clouding my perspective.

It was a heavy burden to bear, and I realized that I needed to make a change. I needed to close the door on negativity and create space for the positivity that I deserved.

The act of firmly shutting that door was both liberating and empowering. It was a declaration that I valued my own well-being, and I refused to let anyone, or anything jeopardize it.

It was a statement that I would no longer be a receptacle for the negative energy of others.

By doing so, I created room for a different kind of energy—the warm, loving, and positive vibrations of people who genuinely care for my well-being.

These individuals radiated kindness and positivity, and their presence brought with it a sense of peace and contentment that I had long yearned for.

Surrounding myself with loving and kind individuals has had a transformative effect on my life. Their positivity is infectious, and it has seeped into every corner of my existence. It has bolstered my confidence, enhanced my mental and emotional well-being, and reignited my zest for life.

In their company, I have rediscovered the joy of simple pleasures, the beauty in everyday moments, and the power of genuine human connection.

They have become my support system, my cheerleaders, and my confidants, offering unwavering encouragement in times of need and celebration during moments of triumph.

While I believe that negativity is often a cry for help, it’s a journey that individuals must embark on themselves.

We can extend a hand and offer assistance, but ultimately, they must choose to seek the help they need to break free from the shackles of negativity. Until then, we must prioritize our own well-being and protect our positive energy.

Life is a beautiful thing when you firmly close the door to negativity and no longer allow it to seep into your life.

It’s a conscious choice to surround yourself with love, kindness, warmth, and positivity—a choice that has the power to transform your existence from one of darkness and doubt to one of light and limitless potential.

As I bask in the warm embrace of positive energies, I am reminded that we have the agency to curate our own lives.

We can choose who we allow in, and by surrounding ourselves with loving, kind, and positive individuals, we create a life filled with joy, love, and the profound beauty of positivity.

Sending you all peace, love, and light.

AI image of a woman in a forest with the light shining through the trees — *AI image*

mainimagecredit:HarmeetKaur

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all about the dog

George the Therapy Dog: A Tale of Love, Healing, and Resilience

By 60plus&lovinglife September 30, 2023 0

In the tapestry of our lives, there are certain threads that stand out, woven with love, compassion, and boundless joy. One of these threads is my beloved dog, George, a registered and trained therapy dog who has brought immeasurable happiness to countless lives for over a decade.

He’s not just the cutest and sweetest dog; he’s a source of unwavering love and comfort for those in need. Today, I want to share the story of George’s journey, including a recent twist in his path—the diagnosis of a cruciate ligament injury in his left leg.

For more than ten years, George has been a shining beacon of hope and warmth in our community. His kind eyes and gentle demeanor have graced schools, hospitals, and various therapy sessions, where he’s made a profound impact on the lives of many.

From comforting anxious students during exam periods to bringing smiles to the faces of patients facing health challenges, George has been a source of solace and joy to all who have had the privilege of meeting him.

Recently, however, our dear George faced a challenge of his own—a diagnosis of a cruciate ligament injury in his left leg. It was a moment that filled my heart with concern and sadness, knowing that my loyal companion was in pain. But, just as he has brought comfort and healing to others, it’s now our turn to provide him with the care and love he so deserves.

George’s injury has prompted us to take a closer look at his health and well-being, and to explore the best ways to help him on the path to recovery.

While surgery may be an option in the future, for now, we’re focusing on conservative management of his symptoms. This includes hydrotherapy to strengthen his leg, anti-inflammatories to reduce pain and swelling, and plenty of rest to allow his body to heal.

But it’s not just about the physical treatments; it’s about the emotional support as well. George may be semi-retired, but his spirit remains as strong as ever. He thrives on love and cuddles, and I am more than willing to provide him with all the affection and comfort he needs during this challenging time as is my partner, who loves George as much as I do❤️

As I watch him undergo his treatments and see the determination in his eyes, I am reminded of the countless lives he has touched throughout his years of service as a therapy dog. It’s a testament to his resilience and unwavering spirit that even in the face of adversity, he continues to inspire those around him.

In sharing George’s story, I hope to highlight the importance of cherishing our animal companions, who bring so much love and joy into our lives. They are more than just pets; they are family members who deserve our care and attention, just as we would provide for any loved one facing a health challenge.

George may be on a different journey now, one that requires patience and dedication to his recovery, but his spirit remains undiminished. He has given us so much over the years, and now it’s our turn to give back, to ensure that he can continue to enjoy a life filled with love, cuddles, and the occasional visit to the schools and hospitals that have come to rely on his boundless affection.

As we move forward in this healing journey with George, we do so with gratitude for the joy he has brought to our lives and the countless lives he has touched. And we look ahead with hope, knowing that with time, care, and the resilience that defines him, he will overcome this obstacle and continue to brighten the world with his presence.

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Relationships

Dancing in Love: Breaking Free from Walking on Eggshells

By 60plus&lovinglife September 28, 2023February 29, 2024 0

Love, they say, is like dancing to your favorite song, where every step feels harmonious and free. It’s a rhythm that resonates deep within, igniting joy, warmth, and a sense of security.

But sometimes, we find ourselves in relationships where the dance turns into a delicate balancing act—a constant tiptoeing on eggshells to keep the peace.

I’ve walked that tightrope before, where every word and action had to be carefully measured to avoid setting off an unpredictable storm of anger and retribution. It was a relationship that left me feeling trapped, unheard, and unloved.

In one of my previous relationships, I often felt like a prisoner of my own emotions. I had to suppress my thoughts and feelings, fearing the repercussions of expressing myself honestly.

Walking on eggshells became the norm, and the weight of that constant vigilance left me emotionally drained and disconnected.

No one should ever have to feel they have to walk on eggshells in a relationship. Love should be a sanctuary, a place where you can be your authentic self without fear of judgment or punishment. It should inspire growth, trust, and open communication.

It is possible to find love that embraces vulnerability, where we can share our hopes, dreams, fears, and insecurities without judgment or reprisal. It’s a love that encourages us to be the best versions of ourselves.

Love is not about being controlled or manipulated. It’s about lifting each other up, celebrating our individuality, and nurturing a connection based on respect, trust, and genuine care. It’s about feeling safe to express ourselves and knowing that our partner will genuinely listen to and support us.

I’ve learned that a loving relationship should never be about keeping the peace at the cost of one’s own happiness. It should be about fostering an environment where both partners can flourish, express themselves freely, and feel loved unconditionally.

Now, I dance through life with a heart full of joy and gratitude. There are no eggshells to tiptoe around, no fear of anger or retribution.

If you find yourself in a relationship where you feel the need to walk on eggshells, I want you to know that you deserve better. You have the right to seek a love that inspires dancing, not caution. Genuine love is out there, waiting for you to embrace it—a love that respects, cherishes, and celebrates the beautiful person you are.

imagecredit:KeyGalery

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The Dark Side of Wishing Harm: A Tale of Compassion and Resilience

By 60plus&lovinglife September 21, 2023 0

I have previously written about the car accident I was in a couple months back. But I am writing another post about it, because there was an unexpected plot twist. Please, if you may, read on to find out!

In life, we often encounter challenges and obstacles that test our patience and resilience. But nothing could have prepared me for the shocking cruelty of a wish that no one should ever experience—an ill-wishing from that toxic ex that was so sinister that it pierced through the realms of empathy and humanity.

It all began on a day like any other, with the barely rising sun casting its gentle rays upon the road, painting the world with a soft light and hope. Little did I know that the fallout from this day would forever change my perspective on the power of compassion and the ugliness of ill-wishing.

As I was driving to the gym, the calmness of the day was suddenly shattered by a jarring collision. I barely had time to react as the young nurse behind the wheel of the other car, exhausted from an overnight shift, missed a give-way sign and crashed into my vehicle. The sound of crumpling metal was deafening, and my heart raced as I tried to process what had just happened.

Amid the chaos and the haze of confusion, I stepped out of my car to confront the damage. But my shock quickly turned to disbelief as I saw the condition of the other driver. The young nurse, her eyes filled with tears, was trembling and distraught. She looked as if she had just seen her world crumble before her eyes.

In that moment, any upset I may have felt about the accident was overshadowed by a deep sense of empathy and concern for this young woman. I approached her gently, offering a hug and words of comfort.

I reassured her that no one had been injured, emphasizing that cars can be fixed or replaced, but lives cannot. She clung to me, tears streaming down her face, and I could feel the weight of her distress. She kept apologizing for her loss of attention and she was deeply upset that she may have potentially injured or killed someone.

It was during this profoundly emotional encounter that I realized the true essence of humanity—our capacity for empathy and compassion, even in the face of adversity.

In that moment of vulnerability, the nurse and I connected on a level that transcended the accident. We were two strangers brought together by a twist of fate, finding solace in each other’s understanding and support.

However, what happened next was as shocking as it was heartbreaking. My toxic ex, upon hearing about the accident, decided to exploit the situation in the most despicable way possible.

He sent me a message (on my blog some time after the accident) and called it my “karma” and used the accident as an opportunity to wish me harm, as if I deserved to be hurt for an unfortunate event that was beyond anyone’s control. By extension, by ill-wishing me, he also ill-wished a poor, young nurse and that is despicable.

Such a callous and vindictive response to a situation filled with pain and distress left me stunned and disheartened. It served as a stark reminder that some people choose to revel in the suffering of others, blinded by their own bitterness and resentment.

It revealed the true character of my ex, a person capable of harboring dark thoughts and ill-wishes even in the face of human suffering. My family and friends were shocked beyond measure when I showed them the message.

In the end, this experience taught me two valuable lessons. First, accidents happen, and they are never anyone’s “karma.” We must approach them with empathy, understanding, and a willingness to support one another.

Second, it revealed the true measure of a person’s character, which can be exposed in the most unexpected moments.

As I reflect on this harrowing incident, I choose to focus on the compassion and resilience that emerged from it. I am grateful for the opportunity to comfort and reassure the young nurse, and I am determined to rise above the darkness of ill-wishing and cruelty.

I am deeply grateful that neither she nor I or anyone else were killed or injured. That is all that matters.

In the face of adversity, kindness and empathy will always prevail, reminding us that, no matter how wicked the world may seem at times, our humanity can shine through the darkest of moments.

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Reflections on Life

By 60plus&lovinglife September 15, 2023February 29, 2024 0

I have had a lot of time this year to reflect on my life. Time spent in countless medical waiting rooms to see various specialists, waiting for scans, staying still in scanning machines and a few stays in hospital for operations and other procedures.

All up I am deeply grateful for my life. I have the most wonderful, loving people around me and I could not be more blessed. Yes, there have been challenges and sometimes I have ended up in tears when it all got a bit overwhelming. But equally I have laughed many times at the absurdity of things and very much realise that life is strange, fabulous, harsh, beautiful and the most precious gift that we have.

When I have felt overwhelmed I have thought to myself “ok, deal with this one thing and move forwards.” Mostly that works. Occasionally, it’s like “seriously universe?” Overall, I am reminded that I am fortunate to live in a country with excellent health care and that I can afford private health insurance (I prefer private rooms in hospital – that’s just me and I am deeply grateful for the privilege.)

Today I reflect on all the things that brought me to this point in life. It has been a wonderous journey, occasionally strange and some wrong turns. But I always get back on track, put one foot in front of the other and look towards the future whilst appreciating my here and now.

I have some beautiful friends around me who always offer their love and support. I have been saddened to see four long-term relationships end over the last couple of months for some of my dearest friends. Each of my friends are the kindest, sweetest and most loving of people. It is now my turn to offer my loving friendship and support to them to be a small part of their path forwards into their new lives.

They are all at various stages in the grief process and it is heartbreaking to see them go through this challenge.💔 There is shock and bafflement as to why things have to end. I have wrapped my arms around them (two in person and two virtually due to distance) and told them they are beautiful souls who deserve to be loved and cherished. They really, really do deserve the very best.

Yesterday was RUOK Day and I am reminded that we do need to care for each other and reach out, not just today, but everyday and ask “how are you?” Do it from a place of authenticity. Ask with a genuine belief that you want to hear the answer. A lot of people are not ok at all. Many do not want to share their grief, pain or depression. But if you give them the space and be prepared to listen, hear and offer empathy, then you may help someone open up.

You don’t have to fix things for them. Often listening is enough or a start at least. I have had times where I have been stoic and just pushed through things. Other days I have walked into work feeling mostly fine, then someone says “hey, how are you?” and I end up in tears. I am deeply fortunate that I work in a very supportive environment with really wonderful people and an understanding and empathetic boss.

I am the Safety & Wellbeing officer in my workplace. For RUOK Day I took my dog into work (he’s a registered therapy dog) for customers and team to pet and cuddle. One girl said she was feeling really down that day and seeing George immediately lifted her spirits and changed the tone of her day.

My message to you all is to be gentle with yourself. Life has many twists and turns. We can have our hearts broken, we can suffer sudden or chronic illness, we can lose people. But if we genuinely and carefully nurture ourselves, then we have the capacity and bandwidth to help each other through the good times and the bad.

As I take one step after another into my future I am fortunate to have my daughter, family & friends by my side offering love and support, laughter and joy. Equally, I am there for them for anything they may face – good or bad – now and in the times ahead. Gratitude is my daily mantra:

I put my energy into things that matter to me. I am grateful for my life’s challenges for helping me grow and become who I am. I am grateful for my dreams and I know I have the power to manifest them. I love myself, respect myself, and accept myself exactly as I am.

mainimage credit:brandreka

gratitudejar-credit:teachcheat

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