Friday, May 20, 2016

What I've Learned...

I know it has been awhile since I last wrote, but I have been so unbelievably busy!  Certain things that I have been praying for finally started to happen and all of a sudden, my life became full!  I have missed writing so, so much and I am so happy to finally be at my laptop again.  I think I picked the perfect time to write again, and here is the reason why...

As I sit here on the eve of my 45th birthday, I have been reflecting on my life, especially the past year.  There have been many ups and downs, failures and successes, and prayers answered and unanswered. Despite the tears and laughter I experienced this past year, I have learned so much.  Not just about myself, but about others as well.

I have learned that it's OK to walk away from a situation or relationship that only brings you sadness. Don't EVER allow someone to make you feel inferior, unimportant, small, unworthy, unlovable, or unhappy.

I have learned that it's OK to be selfish and say NO!  Stand up for yourself and do what makes YOU happy.  You can still love and respect the people around you and accomplish what it is that YOU want to do with YOUR life.  The people that you think will be the most upset and disappointed, may surprise you and be your biggest cheerleaders.  Just take that leap of faith and put your dreams into action!

I have learned that no matter how many friends you have, only a handful will ALWAYS be there when you need them.

I have learned that I REALLY love cupcakes!  I crave them daily!!!  But, I have lost 10 pounds in the past month and this keeps me from divulging in that guilty pleasure!

I have learned that I love my family more than words can say.  We may not always get along or agree, but they are my family, and I wouldn't be the person I am today without them.

I have learned that I am a good writer and that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. Writing makes me happy and I look forward to doing it as a career.

I have learned that nothing comes easy.  Anything worth having, is worth the hard work it will require.  Whether that be a job, a relationship, a friendship, career move, anything.

I have learned that I can save money when I set my mind to it.  I have a goal and keeping focused on that goal has motivated me to save as much money as I can.

I have learned that I don't need anyone's approval.  I am responsible for my own happiness and well being.  If I fail or succeed, then that is on me.  I am accountable for every mistake and success in my life.  Me and only me.  I may share my thoughts, ideas, and plans with you, but that does not mean I am seeking your approval.  It just means that I care about you enough to include you on my journey.

I have learned that I am stronger than I ever thought possible.  It took the biggest heartbreak of my life for me to realize this, but that heartbreak forced me to be strong and I'm never going to back to the person I was before.  Yes, I still make mistakes.  Yes, I still wish that some things could be different, but I have learned not to force things that don't come easily.  I'm human and I will still fall from time to time, but I know what I deserve and what I don't.

I have learned that it's OK to fail, as long as you pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep trying. Never let someone tell you what you can and cannot do.  Don't let anyone deter you from being the best version of yourself.  Every day is a new opportunity to be a better person for yourself and those you love.  Never stop growing and learning!

I have learned that writing this blog has healed me in so many ways.  Even if I am the only person who will ever read these entries, I am proud of myself for doing it.

I have learned that I like myself.  I'm not perfect...not even close, but I like who I am and who I am becoming. It took me 40 + years to become this woman, and I like her!  I am still working towards loving myself, but I am so close!!!  Baby steps!

Most importantly, I have learned that my faith is strong.  My faith is the ONLY reason I am still here and doing what needs to be done.  It's the reason for my strength, my journey, and my positive outlook for my future.  I have faith that I will be happy and successful.  I have faith that I will love again and be loved in return. And I have faith that this road I am on is exactly where I should be.

So, CHEERS to my 45th birthday!  And here's to another 45 years!!!  Love yourself and be happy!!!


Peace & Love

Kristina