A Life Well Lived

Sometimes when I’m in need, I draw on the memory of a particular beach I used to walk on during my winter trips south. I visited the same area many times over the years and developed a sense of belonging most particularly to the beach I walked each morning.

I remember clearly the sensation of my first step down from the concrete onto the cool welcoming softness of the morning sand. I recall the long stretch of compact sand along the ocean when the tide was out, the excitement of discovering a shell, the refreshing breeze on my face, the gradual build of warmth as I walked in the direction of the morning sun.

But most of all, I remember the moment when I’d reach the end of the beach where I’d stand and take several conscious breaths encouraging myself to take in the moment absolutely and completely.

Occasionally I’d sense that I’d stepped away too soon and I’d will myself back to my breath, eyes closed for a few more moments of silent appreciation. In doing this I’d feel nourishment fill me from head to toe and sometimes I’d receive what felt like a hidden message that had been awaiting me because of my willingness to be there completely in the gratitude of the moment.

Let yourself linger in the moments and you’ll feel more wonder in the moving clouds, more awe in the newly opening rose, more refreshment in the cool water on your feet, more love in the gaze of another.

Give yourself another chance. There is more for you here. Return to your breath and deepen your experience of a nourishing moment.

In savouring these moments you’ll enliven your connection to the world around you, you’ll notice the place of wholeness within you and you’ll cultivate the feeling of a life well lived.