Discovering How to Rise Again

Vincent Van Gogh, one of my favorite artists once said: "In spite of everything, I shall rise again." Lately, I've been slacking on my resolutions and wallowing in the guilt. I told myself I was doomed to live in a body I was not happy with, doomed to always feel at arm's length from God, doomed to eat poorly. I really threw myself a pity party! And it's time to throw the guests on their ear. Guilt, shame, doubt. All of them-gone! I read a radical post online recently stating we have the power to change our lives in every decision. Think about it, you can put down your device, walk out the door and join the circus-completely changing your life. I choose to change my life and start over. As far as I'm concerned the New Years ball is about to drop and I'll pick up where I left off. Even though it means I have to completely rearrange my schedule, again. I will live a healthier, happier life.

I've been learning to appreciate the small things in my life. Access to clean water, for starters. That's a luxury far too many people don't have. I'm teaching myself to have a grateful heart, instead of only seeing what is not in my life. Part of having a grateful heart is serving, wherever possible. I have often told my friends to step out of their lives and volunteer somewhere when they couldn't seem to shake their bad mood. I finally can take my own advice by serving in my church. Yes, there are a few circumstances out of my control, but I'm also taking steps to get some control of my life. 

Learning to find every blessing, adjusting my priorities, and setting fresh goals have all really opened my life up for massive changes. I'll be going back to school soon to pursue my dream of studying aquatic biology.  I'll finally have a license and be able to take my daughter on outings. I've been planning better quality meals. I'm taking several steps to grow my business. Once again, everything feels back on track. 

Of course, everything is still a journey. Part of growing my business is my GoFundMe campaign, which is designed to allow me to interact with my fans and followers. One of my goals is to provide higher quality trinkets for my group on Facebook, Seaspray's Shoal. These trinkets will eventually be available in my store as soon as I can open. 

Despite every obstacle, perhaps to spite every obstacle, I will be making a conscious, daily choice to follow Vincent Van Gogh's words. 

I will rise again. 

-Seaspray