Its funny ((or is it)) the things life throws at you. I am coming to realize certain events in my life have been very painful but also very rewarding at the same time. I understand that I tend to fear change. Change is unspeakable and it is not until reflection that I appreciate the actual beauty of it all. There are days where change affects me negatively but the overall impact is much more fulfilling and gratifying in the end. When it gets complicated I will read this.
Death--it is not until you understand death that you can fully appreciate the beauty that comes from the whole experience. Now it may seem ridiculous that I can use death and beauty in the same sentence however if you really reflect upon your own experiences I am sure you will understand. From death (or the experience of losing someone) I have gained an incredible amount of knowledge and fullfillment. As far as knowledge goes, I have learned to appreciate life and what it has to offer. I know how important it is to share your feelings and emotions. I can be silly and have fun without wondering what people are thinking of me. I set goals for myself only to look forward to the days coming where I can enjoy satisfaction. I understand that we all have a different life path, and it is not always our decision of whether it steers off course. Now it is also strange to say that death can be fullfilling, and this may seem selfish, however after grieving it is evident the gratification that follows. From my experiences I have been blessed with some of the most wonderful things in life. 1. Death brings friendship. Experiencing death together allows us to form a bond that cannot be broken. I can honestly say that my closest friendships were formed during times of grief. It is during this time that you are most vulnerable. Friendships is what keeps you together and gets you through the pain in the end. I look back to my experiences and try to appreciate the wonderful people that have come into my life. You know who you are...and I thank you. 2. Death allows you to love. Its simple. Lose someone you love. Learn how to love so much more. 3. Death creates celebration. Again, death and celebration in the same sentence? Yeah. Whether it is going out and toasting to the many angels above or throwing a formal party in remembrance we allow ourselves to celebrate someones life. During this celebration ((in any form)) we appreciate life and the influence we have on each other.
Birth--it may be a little strange to follow death with birth however, it is something I have recently experienced on a more personal level and it is important to note. Now we all have known someone who has had a child however, it is not until you experience the whole 9-10 month process that you really understand its beauty. From the beginning excitement...or surprise, happiness is endless. I am thankful to have had experienced this, especially at this time in my life, because it has not only made me grow, it has also given me the ability to love someone in a way that I never knew before.
Relationships--Whether they are beginning or ending they help shape and mold you into the person you are. You may experience pain, but again, in the end this pain is satisfying. The things you learn, not only about the other, but about yourself creates a foundation upon which you will continue to build and grow from each and every day. I am thankful for the relationships in the past and in the present because they have allowed me to understand and appreciate all the components that make up love.
Diversity--I could not be more thankful that I have been able to experience diversity in many ways. I cannot understand how some can see diversity as a negative thing. The fact that time is changing and we are moving towards a more accepting society ((a positive hope)) makes me look forward to the future. From my work, to my friends, to the places in which I travel(ed) I have come to love the diversity and its beauty. I love that I can continue to help people from all walks of life. It makes me understand and appreciate how different each and every one of us are. To be able to travel and see the diversity that exists in this world is what helps me breath every day. I cannot be more thankful for the diverse group of friends that I have. It is wonderful to have friends in all shapes, sizes, colors, and locations. I love that I can, at any time, share the different perspectives all my friends have to offer. It is the knowledge they have shared and the love they have given that has made me the person I am today. And for that, I cannot thank you enough.
Well...that is all...for now.
