Wednesday, October 7, 2009

My mom Joan used to say today is the first day of the rest of your life. I really understand that and appreciate it now as an adult. That simple statement gives me so much - forgiveness for the mistakes of the day before, a belief that I really can do anything if I put my mind to it and a power to not allow myself to fall into the "well I have already screwed up so whats the point of trying" attitude. We are not measured by how many times we fall or even how badly those falls are - but by how many times we pull ourselves up and by the lessons that we learn from the falls.
So I think to myself - what if today was the only day I got - what if today was the only day that I would be remembered by. Have I put forth an effort worthy of remembrance? Have I sang like no one was listening? Have I danced like no one was watching? Have I loved with all heart?, Have I meandered to the beat of my own drum even though it is unlike any one elses. Have I told my friends Thank you for their part in my journey, have I told the ones I love not just that I love them but why they are treasured, Have I talked to God, Have I not only forgiven my enemies but told them that I have, so that they may take that forward in their journey. Have I forgiven myself?

Some of the answers are yes, some answers are no, and some are works in progress and that is why its important to remember that tomorrow is the first day of the rest of your life.
Thank you mom.