Living Above the Influence

It's easy to judge others, easy to fall into the drama, easy to put down others to make yourself feel better.  In most instances the easy way is not the right way. Human nature is to compete. Human nature is to judge others decisions, choices, ways, journeys....But, as a human, you have the choice to live above that influence. When you think about society, it can on the surface, be a disgusting thing. I think about all the negative influences that surround us each day. I have to purposefully search for the positive and the good things that occur every day. And just as I have to do that with intent and purpose, I have been really trying to focus on not getting caught up in the drama and judgement days. I consider myself to be a caring, thoughtful and kind individual. I work hard to stay positive in my life and try hard to effect others around my in a positive way. I was reminded of all these thoughts today when having lunch with a friend I have known since 6th grade. Natalie and I have had our ups and downs. As adults though, we have grown to respect one another's lives. As we have evolved, we have realized the treasures in friendships and in life in general. I believe we have always stayed in contact because of our history. We have a foundation built with blood, seat and tears. In middle school and high school, we had each other's backs. Natalie and I had many family circumstances that were similar. We could easily empathize with each other. And still to this day as 27 year olds, we understand each other's pasts and why we each have made the choices that we have. It really hit me today, we have grown so much as individuals. One thing I especially appreciated was our continued conversation. As we shared stories, we were both making connections to our own lives. We reflected, analyzed and gave insight to why we operate the way we do. I left that lunch feel healthier. I know that is a strange adjective to describe the way I felt, but that is the best overall word I can think of. I felt healthier emotionally as we shared personal stories and gave one another insight, I felt healthier mentally as we shared successes and goals and overall,  felt like I left that lunch as a better person. Natalie reminded me of what life is all about:  living your best life and only hoping the best for others. Hearing Natalie's perspective of marriage, motherhood and her decisions about her career was exactly what I needed to hear. I look up to her as a wife, mother and friend. I learned alot today from my dear friend, Natalie, and I was able to grow as I was reminded of things that I already knew. My heart and mind were clear and I was simply available to be effected in a positive way. So, thank you Natalie for being so great. The conversations we shared today cannot be had by just anyone. I appreciate your thoughtfulness and kind ways. You are an inspiration!

Small Town vs. Big City

As you know, Mike and I moved this summer. We now live in a very small city, and I mean very. I was a little apprehensive to move her because there isn't much around. There are little shops, stores and businesses. We are right off a major highway, so we do not have to travel more than 15 minutes to get to a larger town though. Anyway, when we first moved I was having a hard time adjusting to how slow the town moves. Cashiers, checkers, drivers, walkers.....everything one setting.....slow. It did not take me long though to appreciate it as I do now. I makes me more patient. But, what I love the most is in every situation, whether it be the bank teller, the post office worker, the gas station cashier, they always take the time to do 2 things:  Smile and ask how I am doing. And they mean it. Every time. A year ago if someone were holding be up by not moving as fastly as I hoped for, I would have been short and rude. I am not proud of that, that is just the honest truth. However, this weekend, I caught myself. I have fallen into there trap. I do it now too. I slow down and I am kind. I ask them how they are. I have had more conversations with complete strangers than I ever have. I have also noticed I have become more calm since moving here. I am more relaxed and at peace. Weird, but makes sense. Love the unexpected. Another reason my sweet small town was in my thoughts is due to a convo I shared with our friend, Aeric, earlier last week. He is currently in Chicago, playing the role as a law student with lots of stress, not enough time and working hard to have dreams come true. The big city is getting to him and starting to take its toll. He is counting the days. I can only empathise with him. He is dying to get back to him home town of STL. As we talked, I reminded him to keep pushing and as much as we all are patiently awaiting his arrival, he should try to keep his smile the last few months in Chicago. Easier said than done, I know. I was able to connect though from a different angle. I am always thinking and reflecting, trying to make connections. Not that I want to bring it back to me, but I think we all can benefit from others perspectives and learn new things about ourselves, if you let yourself live in that moment.