Around the Sun

Life is a collection of moments... our interpretation of the world before and after us.  The colors we percieve and how we internalize and externalize the things that happen around us say a lot about who we are.  Of all the milestones we go through in life (good and bad), it is ultimately how we decide to react, to view the world around us, that makes us... well, US.  Regardless of what (one of my many new guilty pleasures) Taylor Swift's new song says, "Look What You Made Me Do," no one can make us do anything.  Our actions are our own.  No matter what happens to us, or things people do that may hurt us intentionally or unintentionally, we have the final say in how we respond should we even decide if it's worth it or not.  Is it worth wasting your time and energy on?  A lot can happen in a year, we grow... in any direction we choose.  We can do what's EXPECTED of us...and settle by doing what everyone else is doing; or we can live our OWN lives by following our passion to discover our PURPOSE.  Do what sets your soul on fire. Take the road less traveled. Embrace that weird side others may not understand, and it may lead you in the right direction. Which direction are you being pulled? Which direction do you want to go? This is your life and your journey around the sun. 

 I have chosen to move upward.  Not sideways, not backwards, not even forwards (well maybe forwards a little)... but mostly UP.  It took little steps... up this steep incline! 
1. I consciously stopped looking down and started looking up.  This includes limiting the time I'm looking down at my phone and started looking more at people and observing their expressions, what people around me are doing, appreciating being where I am, recognizing the smells, breeze, sounds, and things actually going on in front of me and not through some electronic device.  I'm not going to lie though, I still play on my phone when things strike me and I want to capture it in photos or videos, or even write things down in my notes.  Ugh... the struggle!  But I've improved! 
2. The ends of my mouth would turn up as I found myself smiling more and more.  For me, this was surrounding myself with loved ones, people with good intentions, with hearts of gold, people who are genuine, honest, charismatic, goofy, fun-loving, outgoing, spontaneous, considerate, smart, and talented.  Where we all appreciate each other for who we truly are, unconditionally. 
3. I would gravitate to travel destinations where I would get lost in nature and hike to the tops of mountains, waterfalls, caves, gigantic trees, and 9 days ago I even skydived for the second time. 
4. There are additional things and activities I've found a passion for that I'm not ready to disclose just yet.  But I promise I will keep you posted as things unfold! 

Then there's that infinite sky.  Up above us, consistently... If we just look up, and beyond what we think we see... we realize how small we are.  Yet, here we are, as small as we are... making a difference (good or bad, we choose) in this world.  What kind of impact are we making?  What mark will we leave behind if we don't complete our trip around the sun in the years to come?  For me, UNCONDITIONAL LOVE has always fueled me and inspired me.  I am so fortunate that my parents have always taught me that.  I want to be an example of that... show proof that it exists... so we can influence change in an upward and loving direction.    

Around the Sun

there's a place, that calls your name

it knows who you are

you're written in the stars

and you may not believe it

but this whole world is ours

there's a part that remains

after everything's changed

transforms your heart with each passing day

and it's the only thing you've sewn

in the tapestry of things you can own

leaving just a trace of your face, forever

follow the rays that bathe your skin

let it lead you and again, begin

 take a trip around the sun

be open to what's here and yet to come

let it lead you with an open heart

no need to force it, it's already in the stars

Love Always,

Lainey

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