Just Own Yourself ™
I just found the below article I wrote in April of 2009, and thought it was worthwhile to share. Following my bliss has been good, it's what led to my becoming a nutritionist and I truly feel that I can say I *finally* know what I want to be when I grow up! =)
When I made a conscious decision I wanted out of the corporate
world because I did not want to live one more day that I wasn't feeling
fulfilled, I had no idea what I was going to do … however, I was willing to do
whatever I had to do, to find out what it was I was meant to be doing. And what
a roller coaster of a ride it’s been since I made that decision three years
ago. Although, at the same time, it’s been the most rewarding, fulfilling and
eye-opening ride of my life in terms of soul enrichment.
Somehow, someway, through much synchronicity and many
“coincidences”, I wound up in a care-giving role. It totally makes sense, as
I’ve always had a passion for being of service and making a difference in the
lives of others. I’ve fallen in love, in every sense of the word, with the
wonderful individuals I’ve had the fortunate opportunity of caring for. People
whom I would’ve never had the chance to meet, if I hadn't followed my heart,
rid my life of undue pressure, and pursued things which had personal meaning
and fulfillment for me.
First, there was Viktoria. Someone who shared my very own name, with a
slightly different spelling, who was born exactly 40 years and one day before
my own birthday. What a unique, independent, strong-willed woman. She
captivated me from day one, probably because of how alike we were in many ways.
Underneath all her strength, she possessed a softness and sensitivity that
bonded us like long lost sisters.
Born in Lithuania, Viktoria lived through World War II with incredible
stories of survival. Being an only child separated from her parents during the
war, she survived living in a refugee camp, and for the hope of safety even
dared to sneak onto a military train headed for France. Now that’s brazen! One
of the soldiers spotted her after a few days, hiding underneath one of the
seats, and commanded her to tell him what she was doing there. In all her
boldness and indifference caused by war, Viktoria firmly told the soldier she
was going to visit a friend and to leave her alone. And he did. Her
determination and resiliency took her far.
Married and divorced twice, Viktoria went on to raise five beautiful
children on her own. Doing the best she knew how at the time, with what she was
given, it is my only hope that all of her children realize and accept the gift
their mother gave to them. Her self, her commitment, her blind faith of making
it despite the seeming odds stacked against her. That’s devotion. That is love.
Yesterday was Viktoria’s funeral. She died at age 85. I was overtaken
with emotion when her daughter asked me to give the eulogy at her mother’s
graveside. In my eyes, there’s nothing that compares to the relationships we
grow during our time here on earth. It is those human connections that provide
us with the true lessons, experiences, and love that help our souls to mature,
grow, and know the very essence of living.
I’m now a caregiver for a lovely older couple who recently celebrated
their 63rd wedding anniversary. Yes, SIXTY THREE years of marriage.
Another amazing lesson in devotion. Frank and Mary Lou have also been
tremendous teachers to me. I’ve learned a lot about patience, loyalty, respect,
and the importance of lightheartedness in marriage. It’s cute to see them laugh
and kid with each other. She hardly seems to notice any of his quirks or
idiosyncrasies, yet only sees the unique man she fell in love with when she was
a teenager. That’s devotion. That is love.
Life school has been so very good to me. I’ve been seeing and feeling the
love everywhere, thanks to all the beautiful souls I would’ve never met had I
not dared to venture down a path of completely unfamiliar territory. I used to
repeat a mantra to myself over and over again, to calm and reassure my uneasy
spirit: “I am safe, it’s only change … I
am safe, it’s only change.” Now, I am open and accepting and even embracing of
change. Not afraid any longer, but welcoming of the gifts that come with an
open mind and open heart.
I still don’t know exactly where my path is headed; all I know for sure
is that I am most definitely traveling in the right direction. Faith has
replaced fear, inspiration has replaced loneliness, and I no longer feel adrift
at sea but anchored in the belief that I am exactly where I need to be at this
time in my life.
Be yourself.
Follow your bliss.
And above all else, have fun along the way … and all will lead to exactly
where it’s supposed to. Life just works that way when we’re true to ourselves.
Peace and blessings to all,
Victoria
Hi, just read some of the posts in your blog. Thank you. They are wonderfully inspiring. Loving and validating myself is what I need to work upon and these stories support that. I am involved in two groups. One is CSL, in which I am a practitioner. The other is On Wings of Love which is a prayer healing circle and offers spiritual development courses. It is created by Philip Burley's "Association for Internal Mastery". I have known him as a friend and teacher, for over 35 years. I lived in USA for 20 years.
ReplyDeleteThank you very much for the kindness shown here. That is SO important right now to bring us back to what is truly important in life. Much respect and appreciation, Sam, London, England.
Hello Sam!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for stopping by and leaving such a lovely comment. I am touched by your kindness. I will be sure to check out both groups you have mentioned.
Cheerio kind soul,
Victoria