March 1, 2017 is the start of Women’s History Month 2017! It’s also Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the Lenten Season!  

Wow!! That’s a mouthful. Who had any idea that one day could have so much going on. Well, actually, women do, so it’s appropriate. There will be a lot to share and say and process this month as we celebrate women while remembering those that came before us and the last days of a man who made the ultimate sacrifice for no other reason than LOVE. 

So today, As we prepare to make short-term sacrifices, I want to share the writings of a woman whose writing I admire. 

In her blog, “Pinch Me Living with Bernadette Logue,” she expresses, 

We are all beautiful human beings here in this world trying to find our way.

Every day we seek to better understand the meaning of our lives. We long to discover our gifts and release them fully into the world, and we hope to find happiness and peace along the way.

For some of us these desires ring loud and clear, driving what we do and how we do it.

For others, these deep seeded needs are buried below the noise of daily life, below ego, below fear, below the pressures and norms that we face in society… and thus, they are rarely addressed.
Along my own journey of self-actualization, I’ve witnessed many great people discover their own paths to happiness and self-fulfilment, and I’ve noticed common themes emerge.

In all cases, the happiness they discover and gradually develop internally is seeded by the realization of certain fundamental truths.

It seems we are all here to realize these truths, in our own way, in our own time. And once they resonate fully, not just intellectually, but emotionally and spiritually, we are then able to find the happiness and peace we seek…

At this point, she shares concepts for self-actialization. The things that you need to embody to realize peace and self-satisfaction. One thing I appreciate about humans is that we are free to agree in some areas and not in others. For those that have a mantra, a saying that motivates and reminds you of the potential you possess, say it daily and keep these things in mind.

1. It’s impossible for anyone to define you. Only you can do that. 

2. You were born with everything you need. 

3. Perfection is a man-made illusion. Strive for progress, betterment, knowledge, NOT perfection. 

4. You are not your thoughts. 

5. Your beliefs can be modified to lift you up. 

6. Now is the moment. Be true to it!

7. Your calling is to fully express who you already are. 

8. Challenges are gifts for your growth. 

9. Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself. It’s for you!

10. Surrender is the gateway into sustainable inner peace. 

Post these principles over the best 40 days of Lent or for the entire life. It could make all the difference.