I have been trying to decide if I should undertake a new career path, I have visited an idea, moved away from it and revisited on many occasions. But now I have chosen to do it and with the support of my family and friends I feel confident, excited and free. Today I will be completing an application for year one of a three year journey to becoming a counsellor. Nervous and anxious but I have a smile on my face and in my heart and trust that it is the right thing to do.

It took me a while to think about this but then I realise, what I do today will have an impact. No matter how small or insignificant I think something that I do is, it will impact more than just me and that will ripple out. It may not spread to the whole world but any small contribution will help and it’s all about the small things having a greater impact as the become bigger and bigger through others too.

It has to be when I am with my nieces, I allow my inner child to peek to the surface a little, not something that I do very often. But it is always a relief to show that side of me and to remember not to take life too seriously all the time.

My Auntie Debbie is the most kindest person I know. She is patient, honest, loving, firm but fair, has an affinity to people and animals, she is simply a genuine woman. I believe I embody some of these qualities as I have always looked up to her. I strive to continue to remind myself of her qualities and look for them in myself. We all have the ability to be kind but sometimes we forget so it is never a bad thing to remind ourselves.

When I hear the ‘great fullness’ of life, I could easily think it means that I need to do something big for it to be great. However, as I ponder the question, I come to the conclusion that that is not the case. The little things in life contribute to the great fullness of life, a smile, a thank you, a kind word, a listening ear, a welcoming heart. By not taking these things for granted, I believe I will contribute.

Balance and harmony, people accepting each other for who they are. The world realising we are all humans no matter what age, race, gender, beliefs. If only the world could accept we are all as one then maybe the world would act as one.

I often ask myself such a question, thinking maybe I can do more. But sometimes I know that the simple act of being there for them, helps. A listening ear to share worries and woes, joys and reasons to smile. Either way, I have learnt over time that it is often the small things that help the most.

Being loved and supported. I am truly grateful for such a strong bond in my family and friends that even if the worst happened, I would never be alone.

not taking myself too seriously.

By taking the time to reflect on the things I do before moving onto the next. Saying thank you.

Definitely where I live. We had no intention of looking here but the minute we drove through the village, I just knew. And we have almost been here 4 years and love it.

The people who pen words together in books, poems, quotes and songs that help me find light in the dark and fill my heart at times of both joy and sorrow. Thank you to those people who have helped me but will never know it.

Remember not to be so serious, to embrace the inner child and realise life is about more…more joy…more love…more time…more life!

The Secret book series has really helped my with my gratitude practice, It was recommended in a course and I look forward to sharing it with others too.

The ability of others to support, even when they themselves are struggling.

B stopping to savour the positives in a single moment, gratefulness allows us to recognise all that there is around us and to open our eyes to things we often take for granted. It can guide us back to a softer state of mind and prepare us for the next moments ahead.

I cannot begin to imagine what you have been through, but to be here through it all with the strength of faith remaining is a blessing and I wish you all the best for what life holds ahead.