31/12/2020
The last day of 2020. Was it tough? Different? Challenging? Yes. But was it also rewarding? A year of growth? Of positive change? For sure.
As we come to the end of the year, it's common to reflect on our accomplishments. Some years we have achievements to celebrate. But in other years there's judgment and disappointment, because of plans that fell through, goals we didn't accomplish, or demons, we'd hoped to battle. This was the year I learned everything about “ progress, not perfection”. It was the year where I learned to appreciate the people that makes life’s journey worthwhile - thank you that you were such a big part
of it. 2020 was the year I became more forgiving and willing to accept that I can’t have it all, know it all or be it all. I learned that this being human thing is really hard because there's so many factors that have to come together to support me in realizing my dreams. And they're often outside of my control. I learnt and is still learning to let go and let God.
Some years are going to be amazing. Other years, not so much. And if this year wasn't everything we'd hoped for, my wish for you is that you can close it off well by offering yourself something even more precious than a single accomplishment - gratitude. Although life rarely goes as planned, regardless of our circumstances- gratitude has the power to change our perspective and shine the light on what's good in our lives. Even in life’s challenges, gratitude opens our eyes and gifts can be found in so many ways and places. So I don’t know of a better way to end the year than by tuning in to some of those gifts. Starting with the simple pleasures we experience daily - a hot morning cup of tea or coffee; the warmt and comfort of the bed we sleep in each night; the food that nourishes us. I am so grateful for Internet access, and zoom and hangouts that allowed me to communicate with you and friends and family throughout the world.
I am grateful for my passions of leadership and inspiring people to be the best version of themselves; for my hobbies of sport and reading, which brings meaning and purpose to my live. This morning I even find gratitude for the challenges that have taught me lessons and have deepened my self-compassion, wisdom and resilience.
And of course, there's my hubby, kids, family, dogs and friends who bring me the most joy. The people who share my life- Those who console and support me, those who make me laugh and think, those that stretch and challenge me, and those that enrich my life with love and acceptance, loyalty and support. Lockdown brought me renewed gratitude for the miracles of the earth God created- the expanse of the sky, the vast beauty of the oceans and strength of the mountains; the changing shapes of clouds; the warmth of sun on my face and rain or wind on so many other glorious days. The different seasons, the precious air I can breathe freely, the water I drink. I am grateful for the opportunities I have been graced with, and the opportunities KW Explore and our other businesses could bring to so many.
I think with gratitude of the wisdom I've acquired and the personal growth experienced in this life I am living. I am grateful for misfits and poets, sport, golf, music and art. I am grateful that in lockdown I could remember the many places I've journeyed to and the people I’ve journeyed with. And I am grateful for the destinations just ahead.
Today I just have gratitude for the fact that I am here right now. That I as well as my loved ones are healthy, that I’m loved and part of an inner circle.
Maybe you want to take a few last moments today to tune into gratitude for things in your life, big or small.
As Maestro Eckhart said, “if the only prayer you said was- thank you- that would be enough.
So fill your heart up with gratitude and take what serves you into 2021. Thank you for being in my life and being part of my 2020 story and 2021 hope.
May 2021 be blessed, healthy and good to you ❤️