“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.” — Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities

These words by Charles Dickens were written more than 150 years ago, but they sure sum up the year we have all just experienced.

Each of our personal perspectives will tell a unique story of this past year. No two stories are alike. Although there have been struggles, and even tragedies, that many have had to endure, there have also been blessings.

Hopefully, as we wrap up bizarre and quirky 2020, we can all begin to count our blessings and find the truth in them. Really, what else matters?

It is a grateful heart that leads us to a place of peace and allows us to bathe in the serenity of love and forgiveness.

One of the blessings I have noticed is that everyone seems to be questioning what really matters to them. I know that I have. This has led to some positive new habits and unexpected adventures. I’ve made a point of finding extra time for loved ones. I’ve branched out into new creative pleasures and had fun with crafts. Fluffing up our new home has been a blessing. And, of course, we’ve all gotten really good at Zoom meetings.

Most of us now know how important it is to take care of our health. We cannot take it for granted. Preparing healthy food from scratch is a blessing to all. Sharing whole foods made with love is a simple pleasure to indulge, and rewards us with dividends of happiness and good health. Staying clear of too many sweets or alcohol is an act of self-love.

A simple attitude adjustment can bring us greater joy and peace.

Practicing gratitude — however you do it — is part of good health because it gets us out of complaining and focusing on the negative. It shifts us away from what we don’t have control of. If you don’t already have a special gratitude journal, this might be the time to start one. In fact, why not make a few to give as gifts!

Gift giving brings with it a positive vibe. Although some of our gifts will arrive via mail this holiday, they will be carrying our intentions of love and manifestation of joy. This is a way to share the abundance in our hearts. It’s a way to focus on our blessings.

Now is the season to start germinating the seeds for next year. Allow yourself new dreams and explore what you truly desire, what you intend to manifest. Give yourself the time and space for this inner personal work. 

Winter isn’t coming, it’s here. What do you want to focus on now to close this year with kindness and set an invitation to what comes next? A warm fire, a cup of tea, and a pot of savory soup on the stovetop sounds pretty perfect to me.

May you have all the of love, peace, and joy you need to embrace the blessing of your Gorgeously Healthy self!

Gay