Reflections from the Heart: Finding Gratitude and Growth in My Life
- Eva
- Nov 4, 2024
- 6 min read
Reflections from the Heart: Finding Gratitude and Growth in My Life
Article at a Glance
Evening Reflections: Cozy return home after a day in the Lake District.
Gratitude and Joy: A day filled with nature, laughter, and gratitude.
Self-Criticism and Growth: Balancing self-criticism with newfound strength and acceptance.
Support from Loved Ones: Acknowledging the belief and support from family and friends.
Reflection and Forgiveness: Recognising the importance of life lessons and offering forgiveness.
Letting Go: The difficulty and necessity of making hard decisions for my personal growth.
Being Present: Finding joy in simple moments and embracing the power of community.
A Final Thought: A reminder that everyone is enough.
Hello,my cherished reader,
As the evening sets in, I find myself back home, cradling a warm mug of hot chocolate and nibbling on soft ginger biscuits. Yes, I know it’s only early November, but I’ve switched on the Christmas mode early this year. There’s something so comforting about the soft glow of fairy lights and the nostalgic scent of ginger and spice wafting through the air.
Today has been a day like no other—a day in the Lake District that filled me with more joy, laughter, and gratitude than I could ever put into words.
The Lake District, my serene haven, welcomed me with open arms today. I walked for miles, recording videos for my meditation channel. The landscape, awash with the golden hues of autumn, seemed to breathe a life of its own. Every step I took reminded me of how connected I feel to the world around me. And yes, there was that epic moment when I sat a little too close to the edge and almost rolled down the hill into the lake—don’t worry, I’m fine! I laughed so much at myself, thinking if anyone found the footage, at least they’d know where to look for me ( if you want a dose of behind-the-scenes fun,I've posted the full reel on my IG account).
Back home now, I reflect on the day. The sunlit paths, the crisp air, and the rustle of leaves underfoot transported me to a place of pure being. Every little moment, from the way a squirrel darted across my path to the golden leaves tumbling around me (Yes,you don't often get to see those red squirrels-it's quite rare! But I was lucky enough to catch a glimpse for a whole minute :) ), made me feel like a child again—captivated by the world’s simplest, most profound wonders.
I felt inexpressibly grateful for my existence, for the fact that I can be here, in this moment, living fully. I wrapped myself in the silence and inner peace as though it were a warm, loving scarf.
A Day of Grounding and Joy
There’s something grounding about spending the day in nature, isn’t there? I found myself singing out loud, letting the sound of my voice mix with the breeze. I felt free, wholly present, and deeply happy. It’s funny how nature has a way of reflecting your innermost emotions back at you, isn’t it? The stillness of the lake mirrored the calm I felt inside, and the leaves swirling around felt like the perfect representation of life’s beautiful chaos.
Today was, without exaggeration, the best day I’ve had in a long time. I felt so good and blessed, as if everything in my life had led me to this one perfect day. For the first time in ages, I felt whole. I felt like I am enough—an epiphany that came out of nowhere and yet felt so overdue. Isn’t it odd how we can go so long without recognising that simple truth about ourselves? But today, it didn’t matter why or how I realised it; it was enough that I did.
"Forgiveness is not an occasional act,
it is a constant attitude." -
Martin Luther King Jr.
The Self-Critic and Learning to Embrace Enoughnes
I’ll be the first to admit that I carry a relentless self-critic inside me. It’s a voice that constantly urges me to do more, be more, achieve more. No matter how much I accomplish, there’s always that nudge pushing me forward, reminding me that it isn’t quite enough. But today, in the quiet embrace of nature, I felt that inner voice soften. It reminded me that even though I recently had to say goodbye to my therapist—a person who left me with strength, positive beliefs, and so much wisdom—I have what it takes to continue on this path of self-love and growth.
Even though there are days when I still struggle to fully believe in myself, I make a conscious effort to reframe my thoughts and remind myself that strength lies within me. It’s a quiet kind of resilience, one that whispers, “You’ve got this,” even when doubt clouds my mind. But I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge that my strength doesn’t come from within alone. It’s nurtured and reinforced by the people around me—my family, friends, colleagues and other wonderful people I met on my path. They are the most wonderful, supportive community I could ever ask for. Their kindness and unwavering belief in me have been a light during moments of uncertainty and a source of energy that lifts me up when I need it most.
Reflection, Gratitude, and Forgiveness
As I walked today, my mind wandered to the people and moments that have shaped me. I thought about my friends and family, the ups and downs of my journey, and realised how much meaning every experience holds. Each person who’s entered my life, even those who have since left, has brought something unique—a lesson, a challenge, or a gift that shaped who I am today. And for that, I am endlessly grateful.
I believe it’s important to pause and thank those who have been part of our stories, even if they are no longer with us. Every soul leaves an imprint, and that is something to cherish. I often find myself asking for forgiveness in my heart for anyone I may have hurt, knowingly or unknowingly, with my words or actions. It’s a way of finding peace, of accepting that I am human and imperfect, yet capable of growth and love.
The Power of Letting Go
Not too long ago, I made the difficult decision to step away from a friendship that no longer aligned with who I was becoming. It was one of the hardest things I’ve done because it’s never easy to say goodbye, even when you know it’s the right choice.
As we grow, our needs and interests change, and we seek out those who resonate with our evolving selves. This change can be painful, but it’s necessary. I knew I couldn’t live against my true self.
If you’ve ever had to make a similar choice, know that it’s okay. It’s not a betrayal of the past or a rejection of what was good; it’s an acceptance of who you are now. I forgive those who have hurt me, and I ask for forgiveness in return. There’s a universal law in this act, a cycle that brings us closer to wholeness and peace.
The Joy of Being Present
Sitting here tonight, sipping my hot chocolate, I’m reminded that life is made up of these simple, beautiful moments. Today, I felt like the kid I once was—delighting in every falling leaf, marvelling at the skittering squirrel, and just enjoying my own company. It’s in these moments of stillness that I recharge, so I can spread my energy to those around me.
This sense of community is something I hold dearly, and I hope my readers know that we are all connected by more than just shared experiences. We are part of a circle where we give and receive, where we support and uplift each other. It’s these bonds that remind me, and hopefully remind you too, that we are never alone on our journeys.
A Gentle Reminder
Let me leave you with this: I’m here, sharing my story and my journey, in the hope that it will resonate with you. Life has its ups and downs, but remember, we can always find our way through by holding on to our inner strength and leaning on the people who believe in us.
If my words have touched you or brought you comfort, I’d love for you to share your thoughts or stories in the comments. Your voices are part of this wonderful community, and I’m here to listen, encourage, and celebrate every moment of growth with you.
With warmth and gratitude,
Eva
Thank you for so beautiful writing. You have a talent. And I read all your meditations, suggestions, reflections.
It makes you think about everything, about yourself, about loved ones very close to you (here I mean family), friends. You are doing a great job. Thank you. Wish you all the best in what you are doing.