Life is short

Recent events here in Manzanillo have caused me to think about my life, my path and the things that I am grateful for. These events have reminded me that our lives on this earth are sometimes very short. I have been thinking about this alot the last few days and as a result, have been reflecting on my life.

I am grateful for so many things. I feel very fortunate that I am able to be here in Mexico as this has always been a dream of mine. My savings are not going to last forever so I hope that I am able to find enough work here so that I can stay and build a life in this beautiful country. There were many times when I was not sure I would stay here in Mexico as things did not work out as originally anticipated. However, around December, there was a shift whereby I started feeling settled and happy for the first time in many months. At this time, I realized that I am meant to be here and I sincerely hope I am able to stay. Obviously this shift is a a result of many things.....I have met some very special people and made some amazing new friendships. This has helped my transition considerably. Volunteering for the animal organization has also been very rewarding and given me a great opportunity to contribute and give back to this community. I think I also realized that I can do this by myself and that I am stronger than I sometimes think. My Spanish classes have also contributed to this sense of well being.....I am able to communicate so much better.... with my local friends, when shopping in the markets and out in the community.

I am also very grateful for my family and the amazing friends back home that I consider to be family as well. You have all been so supportive and encouraged me to pursue my dreams and given me strength and inspiration when needed.

In addition, I feel very close to the spirit of my mother here. In moments of difficulty and when I have felt very low, I always feel here with me, encouraging me to continue on.

The other day, a friend of mine shared with me a song that is very special to her. This song inspires her and gives her strength when needed. I thought I would share a bit of this with you, as when I read and heard the lyrics, it really resonated with me and all the things I had been reflecting on the past several days. Some of you may be familiar with it already but as I do not typically listen to country, I am sure that I heard it many years ago but had never really listened to the words. Here is an excerpt (not the entire song)from the lyrics of "The River" by Garth Brooks.

You know a dream is like a river
Ever changin' as it flows
And a dreamer's just a vessel
That must follow where it goes
Trying to learn from what's behind you
And never knowing what's in store
Makes each day a constant battle
Just to stay between the shores...and

I will sail my vessel
'Til the river runs dry
Like a bird upon the wind
These waters are my sky
I'll never reach my destination
If I never try
So I will sail my vessel
'Til the river runs dry

Too many times we stand aside
And let the waters slip away
'Til what we put off 'til tomorrow
Has now become today
So don't you sit upon the shoreline
And say you're satisfied
Choose to chance the rapids
And dare to dance the tide...

And I also thought I would share a photo that gives me strength and inspires me. It is also my profile picture so you may recognize it. This is a photo of my mother, myself and several of my mom's dear friends. It is symbolic of the way my mom lived her life and the way I am trying to live mine.....living each moment to the fullest, because life is short and we only have one shot at this one.