Thoughts, Lessons, and Reflections from the First Half of 2024
Embracing Growth, Gratitude, and the Miracles of Everyday Life
Photo by James Cousins on Unsplash
This year has flown by, and as I sit here at 10:02 pm on Friday, July 5th, I can't believe we are already in the year’s second half. Reflecting on these past months, I realize how much has happened and how much I've learned.
I've been writing so much this year that it’s hard to track everything. From having work published in anthologies and magazines to facing rejections and continuing the hustle of writing, it’s been a journey. April, May, and June were filled with writing, participating in competitions, and striving to polish my craft. My Self-Forgiveness journal hasn't been very active on Substack, but I've been pouring my heart into my work.
Sometimes, I wonder if anyone is genuinely reading my words or if I’m just writing for myself. But I believe in investing in myself, just like I care for my body, mind, and soul. It's essential to invest in your future self; you will be grateful for it later.
Despite the busy months and house renovations, I've loved what I've been doing. Writing on paper with a random pen, my hand can barely keep up with my mind's speed. In the rush of life, it’s crucial to pause and reflect.
I’m grateful to have learned these simple but vital lessons early on.
June 15th was also my parents' 40th anniversary—a low-key, simple celebration of happiness.
Even when it feels like my work isn't making an impact, I remind myself that with utmost honesty and consistency, doing what you love will eventually pay off. We can't control everything, but we can control our dedication and purpose.
Life is a miracle. The bed you sleep in, the view outside your window, the walks you take, and the friends in your life—these are all miracles. Many people don’t have these small, miraculous things, and they are precious.
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When we deeply love everything in life, even the bad and the in-between, we unlock true gratitude. Gratitude improves our lives daily, allowing us to enjoy everything more.
These past three months, the first half of 2024, and my whole life have taught me to appreciate the good, the bad, and everything in between. I am grateful for all I have learned and what the future holds.
Feeling bored with everyday tasks and chores?
Wishing for change and something new?
These feelings diminish when you live life with a grateful heart. More than anything, you finally feel at peace. That restlessness and yearning for something else disappear when you’re busy feeling grateful.
The happiest people in the world are not the most successful; they are the most grateful and content. Everything good in your life is outstanding, spectacular, beautiful, and miraculous. It is wonderfully yours.
So, Look around.
What do you see?
What have you been overlooking?
How can you love it more deeply?
Can you hold it in your heart with gratitude?
These miracles are yours to cherish.
May you spread healing energy everywhere you go. 💛
I don't know how much you will connect with my words, but I believe we all connect in the spaces between them. Thank you for staying with me till the last word.
Recommendation for This Week/Month
If you enjoyed reading this, I would be pleased if you consider recommending my work to your readers. Go to Dashboard > Recommendation > Manage > Add Recommendation > Healing Echoes.
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Till then, keep growing and glowing.
A beautiful reminder to find peace in gratitude. Thank you💐
> The happiest people in the world are not the most successful; they are the most grateful and content.
Love this, Neha!