I close my eyes.
Take a deep breath.
Hear the silence surrounding me.
And I reflect...
I think about my life and all of the experiences and choices that have brought me to where I am today. How I have been blessed and worked hard enough to achieve the goals I have set for myself. How the tough times have taught me resilience and strength.
The life I've lived so far stares up at me, reflecting it's power and truth.
Yet I know that there's still so much more out there for me. I can feel my reflection staring back at me, almost taunting me as if to say, what's next? What are you going to do with your life now?
I am pretty sure there's scientific evidence that proves that when we hit our 40's we start to realize how short life is and question why we even exist. Some call it a "mid-life" crisis.
I don't think that's what I have though.
Or at least I haven't had the urge to buy a convertible and start dressing like a teenager again...yet.
But I do know that these days I spend much more time reflecting. Trying to figure out who I am and what I truly want.
I've gotten better at standing up for myself and doing my best to not settle or make commitments that I don't really have room for in my life.
I'd like to think I'm also more understanding of other people and accepting of the fact that not everyone is going to do things exactly the way I do them (that was hard for me for a few years!).
I'm happier now than I have ever been before, with my brain and my body. And that's a wonderful thing.
I think the time I've spent reflecting has helped me to get here.
It's very powerful to look back at your life and see all of your accomplishments, the struggles you've made your way through, and the lessons you've learned from your mistakes.
The goals I accomplish next will add to my life's reflection, creating ripples and shimmery spots that add depth to the picture.
I'll accomplish those goals through trial and error I'm sure. We're meant to learn that way in most areas of our lives.
Overall, though, I'm pretty happy with what I see in my reflection today. There is light and darkness, there are shadows and empty spaces. But there is also depth of color and nuance that makes my story unique.
I wouldn't trade this life, and all of the good and the bad that comes with it, for anything in the world.
I'd encourage you to take some time to reflect on your own life as well. Truly see it for what it is and appreciate what stares back at you.
Your reflection speaks the truth.
And it's a beautiful one.