In Other Words

I recently read a brilliant magazine article that asked various actors, writers, and people of importance to write letters to their younger selves, perhaps as teenagers or college students, and to identify a thing or two I wish I knew. Here are a few I found inspiring: 


Dear Shirley, 
Regardless of how outrageous it may seem, ask for guidance from your higher self and follow it. Also, don't eat so much sugar.
-Shirley Maclaine, 78


Dear Whoopi,
Stay out of your own way.
-Whoopi Goldberg, 56


Dear Michael,
When the time comes to chase your dreams, and it will, they same seem elusive; but know you won't catch them all at once. Just one challenge at a time. When success comes, and it will, don't gobble it up; savor and share it, and it will last. When love comes, and it will, don't bury it in expectation and projection; be prepared to fall in love all over again every day. When the unexpected and inconceivable intrudes on life, and it will, deal with life's actual events; don't obsess about perceived eventualities. Relax-enjoy the ride.
-Michael J. Fox, 50
Is that powerful, or what?


So, in keeping with the theme of becoming wise beyond your years, although I hardly consider myself a source of wisdom and strength, I thought I would pen a few words to my younger self.


To Young Michelle,
Simply stated, savor moments. Savor and relish in every moment of the day that you are blessed with energy and good health. Take days that you are feeling good to spend time with family, laugh with friends, and travel to new places. Do not assume that everyone has a hidden agenda or tricks up their sleeve. Allow yourself to trust those who put their trust in you. Be willing to share your thoughts, feelings, dreams, hopes, and fears with someone who is willing to take the time to listen. Allow yourself to fall in love and dream of the future. Remind yourself every single day that straight A's and excellence in the classroom do not define you as a person or the success that you will achieve. Your past does not define your future or who are meant to become. Even when it seems as though life is telling you, "You can't!," remember that you can, and you will. Spend time with your younger brother, just the two of you, and laugh at his jokes. You will actually miss him when he goes away to college and begins to build his own life. Don't roll your eyes when your Mom offers you some advice or words of wisdom. She does actually know what she's talking about. She has been where you are, and you will become more like her every year to follow. Eat dinner with your family every night. When you move away, you will experience a strange physical ache on nights when you eat alone. Hug, play with, and relish the time you spend with healthy children in your life. Allow them to make messes, eat ice cream for dinner, and stay up late. You will meet so many children on your path that long for those simple pleasures that illness or tragedy has taken from them. Finally, never punish yourself for imperfection. Don't apologize for your flaws and insecurities, embrace them. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, rather than those whose hurtful words weigh you down. When you stop looking for perfection in others, you will stop seeking it for yourself. Savor every moment, even the imperfect ones. 
-Michelle C., 26


To my blog followers, wishing you many perfect and imperfect moments this week. Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers as I navigate unfamiliar territory, battle frustrations, and pray for guidance. Be good to those around you, especially those you work with on a daily basis. Continue to build them up, as you would a close friend or family member. Find inspiration in the mundane. Blessings to all you love in this world!

Feels Like Home to Me

I had a wonderful and refreshing trip home to sunny South Carolina and relished being able to spend precious time with my sweet family. I thought I would give you a glimpse of this amazing group of people that I am blessed to be related to. In the midst of frustration, struggle, and heartache, I couldn't be more grounded by those who provide unconditional love, a shoulder to cry on, and a listening ear. 

My sweet brother and sister-in-law.

The baby-savers!

Sweet Poppy.

Like mother, like daughter.

So special to have my grandparents with me on Easter Sunday.

A sweet new friend's very first Easter.

Love, love, love this little boy!

An Easter surprise for Nicholas.

Tiger Woods was pretty tuckered out from all the festivities.

To my fellow blog followers: Wishing you all opportunities to spend time with family, near or far, and continued chances to count your blessings. Remember to hug and be thankful for the healthy children in your lives, even those who are not your own. Happy Spring and blessings to all you love in this world!