Life now

I've been reflecting a lot on life and the universe over the last couple of years, but particularly in the last twelve months. I have read lots (!!) of 'self-help' books and surfed every web-site I can find about bereavement, moving on, positivity, etc, etc, etc. I began to think that maybe the old adage that 'time heals' is the only thing to wait for. I guess that this is certainly true. As days turn into weeks, into days, into months then there is a certain distance that develops between your mind and whatever it is that has changed you.
I do like to be pro-active though and wanted to do things for myself and this is something I have enjoyed doing and want to share my personal answers:-)

 1. Write down three things you are thankful for:-

 Having a beautiful home
 Having good friends
 Having a beautiful dog

 2. Describe a terrific time / episode in your life

I'm in Kenya, with my friend Nicky, floating in a balloon over the Masai Mara. Total peace. Gradual warmth of the day. I'm with a good friend. Looking down in wonder at vultures nests in the top of Acacia trees. Wonderful smells and colours. I felt alive from top to toe.

 3. Describe your ideal perfect, fantastic future

I live with a partner in a house in the countryside, wood burner, Rayburn, dogs in the kitchen, child running around. Family and friends close by. Parties, shared holidays. My job pays the bills. I am a counsellor, specialising in bereavement. I have love in abundance and am thankful for it.

 4. Write a letter to someone you care for - telling them why you do.

 Dear Chez,

Needed to tell you how special you are. You are one of the strongest women I know. You are perceptive, kind, generous and warm. I love your scattiness and our shared sense of humour. I love your joy in Nature, your dogs and of all places wild! I admire your independence and sense of adventure. I am honoured to count you as such a close friend xxx

 5. List the 'ingredients' of your life that you have or aspire to

 Aromatherapy, my dogs, counselling, friends, home, kindness, strength, positivity, self-worth, peace, conservation, wildlife, thankfulness, love x

 Finally, I thought of positive things that I have now as a direct result of my change in life and they turned into a list of women:

Helen - my beautiful mad cousin - words can't say how much I care for her x
Rachel and Kelly - they are dog-mothers to Peggy
Tracey - my gym buddy, inspirational, strong friend who has helped me endlessly
Iona - she works in Pandora in Oxford and she sent me an amazing card (subject or another blog another time!) Sasha - she did my nails in Debenhams, Oxford and saved me when I was at my darkest Linda - she is my psychotherapist and someone I trust, respect and care for x
Dr Lawrence - My long-suffering GP who has been fabulous throughout
Charlie - she is my hairdresser of a few years now and is my long-suffering confidante!!
Jenny - my gorgeous, funny, strong, indispensable next-door neighbour - love her so much x
Penny - Life coach extraordinaire, who gently pushed me in the right direction when I was going through bad times x
Dr Kanas - My dentist and more! She is an amazing lady who has given me back confidence and self-esteem.

 So, you see, you can have a huge heap of positivity in your life before 'Time' sorts it out for you. It won't be a quick fix, but looking at the good things in life really does help.
 I would to love to hear other people's experiences of trying this.
 Go on, do it......

BB   Lynne xx