There are times in our lives when a gift can arrive in the most unlikely of places.  For example, my "day job" is in a busy Emergency Room at Seattle Children's Hospital. 

In the ER, we see a lot of cancer patients.  One young boy in particular came in recently, and even though it is sad why he is there, the staff lights up because he is such a joy to be around.  He simply is happy.  It definitely puts in perspective the troubles in our own lives and a lesson on learning to just be and appreciate life.

This is a gift.  The smile and giggles from a child who's future is unknown.  So many times we become so bogged down with our daily lives, the stresses, worries, work, kids, jobs, relationships and everything else in between.  Sometimes it can be too much to bear.  One thing I do personally to help when feeling depleted, is feed the soul.  How?  I personally listen to soothing music to gently allow my spirit to awaken, I write how I feel in my journal.  As of late, I weep and it lets my body cleanse itself from any negative feelings.  This is all part of allowing oneself to heal.

If you find yourself getting caught up in your emotions, stop for just a moment and ask why you feel this way.  Take the blame out of it and ask, what does your heart say?  Take a deep breath and simply say to yourself, "just be".  Think of something beautiful, a flower blooming, a child's laughter, ocean waves lapping on the shore; call it a 30 second vacation.  It works.

My world is crazy busy, two kids, both have Type 1 Diabetes; my work with Project Empowerment and preparing for my Climb for Empowerment as well as my work at the hospital.  But even during this busyness, I make the time to write, to sit for a few moments to meditate and appreciate each breath I take and say a simple prayer of gratitude. 

Some wonderful words of advise from my friend James Arthur Ray, "If you feel splintered start by getting clear that you choose to be whole and healed." Harmonic Wealth pg 145.

I wish you happiness, health and healing in your journey on this big beautiful planet.  Take time to stop and smell the roses.

~Kathleen M. Schmidt

www.kathleenmschmidt.com