Oceans in Me
As I sat down to reflect on another year, I was filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and wonder. A year has passed since I last reflected on the words of Anaïs Nin, "We don't see things as they are; we see them as we are." Today, I find myself contemplating another profound idea by Charles Horton Cooley: “I am not what I think I am, and I am not what you think I am. I am what I think you think I am.” This interplay between self-perception and external perception has added another layer of understanding to my journey over the past year.
This year has been a whirlwind of change and learning. I’ve faced challenges that pushed me beyond my comfort zone and demanded more of me than I thought possible. Yet, with each obstacle, I’ve discovered new strengths and capabilities within myself. I’ve learned that growth often comes from discomfort and that resilience is built through perseverance.
One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned is the importance of self-reflection. By taking the time to understand my reactions and behaviours, I’ve been able to cultivate a deeper awareness of who I am and who I aspire to be. This self-awareness has been a crucial component of my personal growth, allowing me to make more intentional choices and to live more authentically.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of life, I’ve made a conscious effort to seek out and appreciate the beauty around me. From the quiet moments of solitude in nature to the laughter shared with loved ones, I’ve found that beauty often lies in the simplest of things. These moments of joy and wonder have nourished my soul and reminded me of the importance of gratitude. Gratitude has been a guiding principle for me this year. I’ve learned that expressing gratitude not only enhances my own well-being but also strengthens my relationships with others. By focusing on the positives and expressing appreciation, I’ve been able to cultivate a more positive outlook on life.
I am immensely grateful for the people who have supported me throughout this year. Their encouragement, love, and understanding have been invaluable. I’ve also come to appreciate the small acts of kindness and the everyday interactions that often go unnoticed. Each of these moments has contributed to a deeper sense of connection and fulfilment.
This year, I’ve made a commitment to excellence in all aspects of my life. Whether it’s in my professional endeavours, personal relationships, or self-care practices, I’ve strived to give my best effort. This dedication to excellence has not been about perfection but about continuous improvement and a commitment to living my values.
I’ve set and achieved numerous goals from public speaking on national TV to a massive event with 1500 in attending to teaching every week or creating small spaces for people to be seen and valued, each one bringing a sense of accomplishment and motivating me to reach higher. Through hard work and determination, I’ve seen the fruits of my labour and the impact of my efforts. This has reinforced the belief that excellence is not a destination but a journey, one that requires ongoing dedication and passion. In the words of Shonda Rhimes, “You can waste your lives drawing lines. Or you can live your life crossing them” realizing that in the deeper sense, has been eye-opening and has prompted me to seek a more authentic sense of self, one that is less reliant on external validation and more grounded in my own values and beliefs and my own lines that need crossing.
As I celebrated my birthday, I was filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the growth, beauty, grace, and excellence that have defined this year. Each experience, whether joyful or challenging, has contributed to my personal development and enriched my life in countless ways. I look forward to the coming year with excitement and optimism, eager to embrace new opportunities and to continue this journey of self-discovery and growth. Thank you for being a part of my journey..