Giddiness & Trepidation ~ This is my life

by Kayce Stevens Hughlett

"For healing comes

and at a cost

A soul sewn stronger still

For healing comes

and all the loss

gifts strength. And love. And will."

The Muse Tarot ~ 10 of Voices

I vacillate between giddiness and what am I thinking?  I wrestle in my mind with who am I to do this ... shall I share and how? ... what if "they" (those pesky naysayers in and outside my mind) are resentful or unkind? Ah... but what if that other "they" (the ones who dare) are inspired to be bold, to take their own small steps, to witness the world through my eyes because they are unable or not quite ready? Or or or ... 

Who am I to be brave? I am Me and I've been offered an extraordinary gift of freedom. Shall I squander it or will I soar? Shall I play small or dare to live big? We will always be criticized by someone no matter what choice we make, so we might as well do what makes our heart sing!

I am able, so I shall go. And when you "go" in whatever way is uniquely yours, I promise to cheer you on with unfettered exuberance! 

One of my greatest joys is to gaze into emerging faces and see brightening light shine through. This past week, I wept tears of joy as I witnessed faces of women, who have experienced unimagineable loss and grief, break wide open to shine and dance. Their own hearts glistened, full with acknowledgement that they are beautiful, worthy, and divine. This is my hope for the world. It is why I continue to risk, to step outside my own comfort zone, and share my joy and trepidation. 

"My work is loving the world." Mary Oliver (& Me) 

~~~

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365 practical reflections and prayers of inspiration, purpose, freedom, and joy. Infused with teachings from historical and current wisdom figures like Carl Jung, Martha Beck, Buddha, Jesus, Lao Tzu, Thomas Merton, Sue Monk Kidd, Anne Lamott, and others, As I Lay Pondering feels like sitting down for conversation with a close friend. Filled with soul, it will meet you where you are whether looking for a recharge or grasping for a lifeline. It is a book you can turn to anytime and read cover to cover, randomly, or one entry at a time. Filled with inspiration, short stories, and simple activities to deepen the pathway to presence, this book is the ideal companion for any personal journey.