Good beautiful morning to everyone… or maybe it’s afternoon, or evening, or maybe you’re reading this right before you go to bed. For sure, wherever and whenever you are – it’s NOW!
I’m feeling very contemplative about time today as tomorrow is a big birthday, the day I become an official senior citizen! Honestly, it seems kind of surreal. Not that I know what it should feel like, but in my mind, I still feel like I’m in my early 20s and I’m having a hard time understanding how all that time has gone by!
As I was thinking about this, I recognized that people have different levels of acknowledgement for birthdays. Some shout it from the rooftops; some want a party or lots of recognition. However, I’ve usually been of a quieter ilk, and knowing that my family and close friends will wish me the best, is enough for me. I’ve never really made a big deal of birthdays either on the inside of me, or on the outside. (Although I’ve got to say, I love getting many, many happy birthday wishes with the popularity of social media these days!)
This birthday feels different in that I’ve spent quite a bit of ‘inner time’ feeling into what being 65 means. I know a lot of you are over that marker, and I know many of you are under it, so this isn’t really so much about something unique to me. Perhaps it doesn’t sound very profound, but the biggest feeling I’ve accessed as I’ve given thought to this particular birthday, is truly gratitude. Hitting this marker has encouraged me to go back over the years and look at what has brought me to this current ‘now’ point in my life. I never dreamt in my earlier years that I’d ever feel so fulfilled and blessed.
As a teen and young adult who didn’t really have a clear idea of what she wanted to be when she grew up, I never dreamt I’d have an enduring relationship, a great family and a totally amazing, fulfilling career with magnificent students, teachers, colleagues, and friends. I also never in my wildest hopes would have thought I’d have the privilege to serve so many wonderful people through our Centre for the past almost 28 years. And for all of that, the deepest and most meaningful thing I can say is thank you from the bottom of my heart. I truly drink from my saucer, because my cup runneth over!
What I’ve come to know is that there is something about the conscious marking of milestones that is good for our soul. Happy Birthday to me!
In keeping with the theme of gratitude – I am also grateful for the Board of Trustees members for our beloved community. Today’s featured Board member is Ann Lotwin.
With gratitude, Dr. Deborah
Professionally, I’ve spent 27 years in the corporate world, I have a degree in Natural Health, I’m a raw food chef, BodyTalk practitioner and certified life and business coach. On a personal note, I’m an advocate for planetary and personal wellness. Yep, I’m a tree hugger. And a foodie. I care about bees and I’m into sustainable, earth and animal friendly agricultural practices and supporting local, organic, non-genetically modified food. I love cooking and feeding people who love to eat good food.
I first attended CSL in Calgary in the ’90s when it was the Centre for Positive Living. In 2015, I sought it out here in Kelowna when I was going through a difficult time personally and have continued since then.
The opportunity to join the Board came at a time when I was looking for something to contribute to; something aligned with my values and something I viewed as making a difference in the world.
I see our community continuing to expand and grow as more and more people connect and embrace the idea that a world that works for everyone is not only possible, it's happening.
If you missed yesterday’s talk by Amanda Pope, titled Finding Gifts in Challenging Times, you can watch it (and other past services) on the CSLK YouTube channel.
Practitioner of the Week is Jade Harms, RScP. If you are looking for one-to-one prayer treatment support for ANYTHING, you can contact this practitioner directly via email at practitionerjade@gmail.com.
MIND-FULL MOMENT
“The great thing about getting older is that you don’t lose all the other ages you’ve been.”
— Madeleine L'Engle
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Happy birthday. May this year be filled with joyful surprises and lots of love.
I definitely get you here as I too will be reaching this milestone number this month - Birthday Blessings and thanks for sharing. 💜