If You Want to Go Far, Come Home To Yourself First

This is a reminder to myself, and to anyone else who needs to hear it.

The days are speeding by, and you've been hanging on by your fingernails- being pulled by so many beautiful and important things- sometimes small and menial tasks, but all demanding a little piece of you. Family, teaching, life, and dreams are all worth your energy, passion, and heart- but you've bled a little too much, walked a few steps too far and your spirit is whispering, "breathe, breathe, breathe."

It's time to gather up the shreds of your fabric that have been pulled loose. The threads of you, when stretched too far stop resembling the beautiful tapestry of humanity that life's experiences and grace have woven into you. Pull them back in, just a little. Take a step back and reassess the rips and tears. Reinforce the frayed edges. There is a picture here, in the layers of colors and textures.

It feels like the last thing you want to do right now, but it is the most important thing you can do. Let go of the appearance of control of the outside world and latch onto the freedom of creating your inner calm. Find your core, and fill it with life-giving air. Rediscover the peace in groundedness, the grace of being in one piece instead of many. Put your ear down to your soul and listen to its love. Remember who you are when you are all in one place, with your feet in your shoes or your feet firmly planted in the sand.

Step foot inside the home you've carried throughout the years- the body, the heart and the awareness that make you- you, but ultimately have the power to color experiences for others, too.

Give that home the nurturing it needs to feel just the way you like it best. Dance in the hallways, paint in the windows, eat delicious, nurturing food at the table and sip tea by the fireplace. Wrap yourself up in a blanket of serenity at bedtime and take the time for a bath. By now, you really need it ;)

Remember your purpose, your value, your calling. Come home to yourself. Light the candle of peace in your heart so that its light glows and flickers wherever you roam. And when you need a reminder again, to pull in your loose pieces, remember that if you take the time to nurture yourself first, you will show up in the fullness of your grace to be the love and light that others need in their darkness, challenge, and growth. You can walk a lot further and take more powerful strides if you are strong inside your heart.

Love,

Your Inner Voice