November Mama Message
“This is not the year to get everything you want.
This is the year to appreciate everything you have.”
- Unknown
When my daughter was a teenager she would often go rock climbing with friends. Standard climbing procedures are that when the climber is ready to climb, they communicate with their belayer, the person holding the rope. They ask, “on belay?”, and if all is ready on the other end, the belayer answers ‘belay on”. Then the climber states, “climbing”, and the response is “climb on”. This communication and double checking of equipment can mean the difference between life and death in the world of rock climbing. As my daughter and friends would head out the door for their outings I would always ask “on belay?” and they would answer “belay on!” These phrases have become embedded in our family as a way to ascertain that communication is clear, and that everyone will be aware of their surroundings and situations. It reassures me that they understand their strengths and limitations, and that they have put their trust in people that have earned it. They are well prepared for the obstacles, uncertainties, and challenges ahead.
At this point in 2020 life has been filled with challenges and obstacles that we could not have comprehended even a few years ago. Global pandemic, political maneuvering, economic uncertainty, accelerated climate change, social inequality, mistrust of media and others… We have stopped wondering how much worse it can get; we can only adapt and prepare for what is to come. It is a time to be grateful for every little thing that we have taken for granted. This doesn’t mean that we change our dreams and goals, or give up on manifesting abundance. It means that we must look more deeply at what our lives are all about, and expand our gratitude and support to others. We can continue to work for the causes that we believe in, and also listen to others as they share their beliefs and dreams.
This country has always been one with a strong sense of individual freedom and self-sufficiency; the stories of cooperation and community abound throughout every region. We are a social species, and we rely on each other for survival and happiness. My own family history is filled with exceptional individuals who displayed tremendous independence and courage, endured unspeakable hardships, and who never gave up hope for a better future. They relied on their own strength of character, as well as the assistance of others, and they expressed their gratitude in ways that impressed me as I grew.
As I was writing this, I reached for my Hope essential oil blend unconsciously, and it brought me comfort and a sense of optimism. I will not give up hope for a brighter future for my children and grandchildren. I will use my Hope oil knowing that the proceeds are going to help combat child sex trafficking. I will keep writing and
sharing and speaking my truths, and count my many blessings. I am grounded in reality and gratitude, but I will always be a dreamer. I visualize a time ahead where cooperation and communication is standard protocol, just as it is in rock climbing. We can put our trust in close family and friends, and we can rope ourselves to each other for security and stability. But we must also forge ahead into the unknown crevices, and onto ledges that may be unsteady… and at times we need to trust our intuition and rely on the help of strangers.
As we head into the holiday season, I want to express my gratitude to the many family members, friends, and strangers who inspire me on a daily basis, and who have helped me to become a stronger person. There are regular setbacks, miscommunications, and challenges… but I have learned to continue to listen, learn, and be grateful for these opportunities to grow. The photo I chose this month is of my three year old grandson climbing, and his gesture exemplifies my attitude at this point in time… we may not be all the way to our destination, but we are pausing in the moment securely held by family, and are able to give an encouraging “thumbs up” before continuing the climb!
Have a healthy and joyous Thanksgiving!
Maria