Following Joy: A Letter from Spain
I came across this piece in my drafts this week. I don’t know how or why I didn’t hit post, but after I read it, I knew I needed to share this part of my story. I was in need of a hug and kiss on the forehead from God with a reassurance that everything was going to be all right. I got the hug and kiss, and a message to heal. I hope you enjoy the story. Here's what I wrote during that transformative time in Spain:
On May 1st, I hopped on a flight to Spain, nerves in a bunch. As I lie here, I am still thankful to God for the green light to be here. When I landed in Spain, I instantly felt the weight fall from my chest. I walked into my Airbnb and was elated when I saw the ocean view. It was as if the external beauty was finally matching something that was shifting internally—a readiness to receive healing instead of just surviving it. God is moving me forward in alignment and allowing me to continue my healing journey in love, peace, and joy.
As I heal, I realize that I am my priority. Being a present, loving mother, daughter, sister, and friend doesn't just happen because I have breath in my lungs. It takes consciousness. Heart healing requires me to slow down. To take time to journal in the sun on my terrace, while drinking Evian water. It involves compassion to come to peace with the feeling of disappointment after a divorce and multiple failed relationships. Healing requires me to dispel the stories and fill them with truth. Healing is understanding that my voice is safe and I can listen to it without regret. Even if I make a choice that feels like the wrong decision, I can move forward in alignment, trusting that everything is working out for me. It is understanding my needs, gently loving myself, and appreciating the love I receive. Healing is understanding that love, peace, joy, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are a part of my makeup, and I attract them everywhere I go. I am a light shining on a cloudy day.
Heart-centered living requires me to honor my energy as sacred and prioritize my joy. I'm learning to notice when conversations, environments, or even my thoughts move me from peace to anxiety. I permit myself to follow joy and the beauty of life. Something I have not done. I practice asking, "What lights me up?" Then, I follow it with joy and delight. This small practice has given me the energy I needed, and I am finally getting things off my list that have been there for years. I've started a YouTube channel as a visual diary of my transition, am building my coaching services, and have more updates to come. This journey of following joy is opening doors I never expected. Stay tuned, my loves - you'll be the first to know what unfolds next. Until next week.
I'd love to hear from you - what's one small thing that lights you up that you could follow this week? Drop a comment, and let's celebrate the tiny steps toward joy together.
Love, Charlene