How To Make A Beautiful Life: A Message From The Universe, And My Mom

February 4, 2011: The universe speaks to me constantly.

If I don’t pay attention, or listen well enough, it tends to shout. Deafeningly. Just lke I felt my Mom (pictured at left in 2009), sometimes did when I was a kid.

Still, I often don’t hear. Just like I didn't as a chlld.

On other occasions, the universe whispers in my ear so softly that I have a hard time deciphering its message. When that happens, I feel lost and confused - as I imagine my Mom must feel now because of Alzheimer's. 

The universe's message to me today, however, couldn’t have been more clear. 

It came in the form of a birthday card my Mom gave me a few years ago, and which I rediscovered this afternoon while shuffling through some stuff in my office.

I was surprised when she gave me the card, because the depth of the sentiments in the verse weren't her usual style. Perhaps that’s why they touched me so deeply when I first read them.

It could also be why they again brought tears to my eyes today…

How To Make A Beautiful Life

Reflections for a daughter on her birthday

Love yourself.
MAKE PEACE with who you are
and where you are
at this moment in time.

Liste to your heart.
If you can’t hear what it’s saying
in this noisy world,
MAKE TIME for yourself.
Enjoy your own company.
Let your mind wander among the stars.

Try.
Take chances.
MAKE MISTAKES.
Life can be messy
and confusing at times,
but it’s also full of surprises.
The next rock in your path
might be a stepping-stone.

Be happy.
When you don’t have what you want,
want what you have.
MAKE DO.
That’s a well-kept secret of contentment.

There aren’t any shortcuts to tomorrow.
You have to MAKE YOUR OWN WAY.
To know where you’re going
is only part of it.

You need to know where you’ve been too.
And if you ever get lost, don’t worry.
The people who love you will find you.
Count on it.

Life isn’t days and years.
It’s what you do with time
and with all the goodness and grace
that’s inside you.

MAKE A BEAUTIFUL LIFE….
The kind you deserve.

My Mom has made a beautiful life. And I'm trying my best to do the same.