Today, we don't need a village to survive. But I would argue that we do need a village to thrive.
It Takes a Village
The Three Most Annoying Words in the English Language
We don't need people to encourage us to keep curling the 5 lb weights that obviously are a better fit for the tiny 80 year old woman in Silver Sneakers class. We need people who are going to yell in our face as we struggle to put up the 20 lb shoulder press, and encourage you to go for that last rep before our arms fall, exhausted, but our pride swells, elated.
Nobody Cares if You’re Motivated
I desperately want all of my goals to be accomplished. So why is my motivation not propelling me forward in the way that a burning desire should?
Appreciation is a Powerful Drug
When you tell someone 'thank you', or 'miss you', or 'wish you were here', it's saying that you notice them and you're grateful for what they bring into your life. You observe what they do when you're around, and you care when they are not around.
The Gifts my Ex’s Gave Me
My most recent breakup has led me to contemplate all of my past relationships. When you're in smack in the middle and full of new love, they seem amazing. When they're removed from your life, you sob in wrenching pain; eventually, months later, you wonder what you ever saw in them and roll your eyes at your past self and her choices. But for me, years down the road, I am thankful for all of my failed relationships because they each have shaped a part of who I am.
Quilting Happiness
Your happiness is like an old, hand-pieced multicolored quilt that has been in your family for generations. It blankets everything. It is handmade. No one else has one just like it.
Things My Students Taught Me
The ability to have a career where I am able to get a taste of pretty much every other job on the planet is a beautiful thing. The best thing is, while I'm teaching my students, they're really teaching me.
When It’s Out of Your Hands
Having things taken out of your hands is not a stop sign for the determined, but merely a moment to pause and look at the compass before forging on ahead.
Things my Mother Taught Me
Overall, even though my mother has given me invaluable lessons, the biggest gift she has given me is simply being herself.
The Hard Lessons Stick
Life is a series of mistakes for everyone. The hard lessons are only given to those brave enough to step outside their comfort zone.
Hannah Elizabeth 