Transitions

I spoke with one of my dearest friends on the phone today. She is such an inspiration to me and I often think of her when I'm going through tough times and especially now that I am transitioning. She sent me a letter in the mail today and I want to share the quote the included in the text:

"Nourish your life. Nourish your mind, spirit and your soul with at least as much attention as you give your body. What you take in--what you pay attention to, will closely reflect the quality of what you give out." Choosing Happiness by Stephanie Dowrick.

I love that. It's really true. When I am absolutely taking care of myself, I feel so much better about what I'm putting out. And it's part of my job as a yoga teacher to put out positive energy to my students even if I'm having a bad day. So, thank you Elizabeth...that really helps.

Also, I've been thinking a lot lately about how transitions can really be difficult. Truly. Especially for this monkey mind. Truly I am building my life as I have always wanted to. One step at a time. One resume at a time....one yoga class after the other. Ironic how I counseled young boys all semester as they transitioned while maintaining a calm and positive attitude about their future...whilst doubting my own abilities at times.

I think what makes the transition a bit easier is the tremendous support I receive from my friends, family and boyfriend who are there to help bring this hot air balloon down to earth. My family has shown me that if you want to do something, you have to put your energy toward that thing and you can make it happen. My middle sister just published a book, my mother just landed a job as a psychotherapist in an agency, my youngest sister works with children with downs syndrome and my dad is the most tremendous and accomplished human being I know. He works tirelessly and is a huge inspiration to me as an emerging adult. If I ever think, "I can't do it," I think of them and all they have accomplished. My friends constantly make me laugh and remind me to breathe and consider the reality of the situation. My boyfriend believes in me even during my most panicky, anxious and doomed states of mind.

I just wish people would talk more about the ugly parts of the transition process because surely it isn't pretty for everyone. There are rough edges, corners at every turn and constant reconsiderations, tough decisions, and the immense wish to consider the best for YOU while the chatter of others is so intense.

Will keep this updated over the next few months.

Things I am grateful for: A list Aly would do daily,

-Supportive people all around
-yoga and my new love, pilates
-letters from friends
-coffee
-Elliot Smith