Today is the first anniversary of the Life Matters newsletter, and I feel like celebrating!
Come to think of it, there’s a bottle of Prosecco in the pantry, and if I stick it in the refrigerator now, it’ll be chilled in time for Happy Hour!
I published my first post approximately 365 days ago and am proud of what I accomplished this past year. I've worked my writing muscle faithfully every. single. day. Even on days when I was pressed for time, didn’t feel like writing, didn’t know what to write, and felt totally uninspired. (That even happens to the rich-and-famous-published writers!)
But I wrote anyway.
In addition, I posted according to the schedule that I committed to. I was worried that I couldn’t keep up the pace due to other responsibilities. And there were times when I was scrambling to get it done. However, with the exception of several weeks throughout the year (vacations, which were announced ahead of time), I did it!
In the process, I acquired the confidence needed to persist despite my initial doubts. I’ve also gained a small but faithful following whom I value tremendously. You’re more than just readers. I consider you friends (even though we've never formally met.) You’re my sounding boards, the people I bounce ideas off of and confide intimate thoughts in.Â
Your Likes, Shares, and Comments inspire me to continue, so please keep them coming! If this is your first time reading Life Matters, I hope you'll consider subscribing and telling a friend who might gain some insights or simply enjoy the commentary.
The type of writing I do reveals personal issues and trusts the reader to accept my imperfections with compassion (and maybe some sound advice.) While that's not easy, it helps me better understand my life experiences and encourages growth. And I believe we should never stop learning and growing!
Likewise, if you're familiar with an issue that I'm currently writing about, you might gain some insight and affirmation. Together we can take a deeper look at the messy stuff as true confidantes and encourage each other. Safety in numbers, you know!
Regarding the things in life that matter, I have many topics to explore (some serious and others lighthearted.) I started this newsletter to reflect on a less-than-perfect life that often prevented me from realizing who I truly was. Discovering self-reflection and mindfulness enabled me to become the person I was meant to be. Not the one ultimately shaped by poor choices and people who didn’t have my best interests at heart.
One of the most important milestones we'll all hit along the way is the moment when we finally own our unique point of view and realize how priceless it is. ~ Sarah Ban Breathnach
I've only skimmed the surface regarding my personal experiences. Therefore, I plan to introduce a new segment to Life Matters, which you'll hear more about soon.
I hope you continue reading along. These stories won’t always be the ‘feel-good’ type, but they’ll be honest and offer a lesson about life.
Because there’s always a lesson if we’re willing to see it.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
What’s YOUR go-to celebratory beverage?
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Congratulations on your anniversary. Well done and keep going as your essays are good reading.
I'm at about the one year mark too and so I say 'Pat on the back' for turning up each week.
It's ineffably hard to regularly turn up and publish an essay that readers can enjoy and from which they can take something, even if it is only a breathing space in a tough day.
Hurrah and lots of bubbles!!!!
Congratulations - I'm so delighted for your milestone! Brilliant work! 🥳
I have two favourite celebratory tipples, depending on the time of day - greedy, I know - one is a brimming flute of chilled Prosecco, the other is a pint of tea. Because #British! 🇬🇧