I dance in the street to live music

I care less what other people think

I can laugh at my own stupidity

I recognise and do not pick up the berration stick

I spend my time doing what I want, when I want

I love my work

I work to live not live to work

I’m driven by little other than what moves me from the inside

I pace myself to suit my own needs

I am aware of them and don’t feel guilty for having them

I sprinkle love wherever I go, in a smile, a gesture, a touch or a prayer

I wish no-one ill

I believe everyone is doing the best they can

I see myself in others and others in me

I am nature and nature is me

I yield to the cycle of life with respect for it’s rhythm

The folly of my youth has composted into compassion and wisdom

I notice and appreciate the small things

My heart is warmed by the smile of a child, the song of a bird

I am at peace with myself, surely the kingdom of god lies within

I wear less make-up

I only shave my legs in summer

I don’t dye my hair

I tolerate less bad behaviour and drama

I walk with angels

I repel addicts of all kinds

I judge no-one

I offer myself kindness, compassion and patience as I would a fallen child

I believe we are all children of god, capable of good and evil and that what you focus on you attract more of

I choose to focus on the beauty of life and everyday miracles

I am thankful and don’t take for granted the symphony of miracles that make my body function moment by moment

I know I am enough

I accept all feelings

I no longer shame myself

I no longer go on guilt trips – they are a hellish ride to a futile destination

I respect my children’s autonomy, their right to create beauty and meaning or chaos and pain in their own lives – they are the masters of their own destiny

I have my hands in the clay of my own life

I am creating the life I love

I give myself permission to take up space, be seen and heard

I give myself permission to be loud, messy and imperfect

The word “should” does not exist in my vocabulary

Being alone doesn’t mean I am lonely – being single is not a disease

I’m allergic to bullshit

I take responsibility for my emotions and not the emotions of others

I honour the presence of the divine in everyone.

Like the pressing of grapes to create fine wine

The pain of my experiences has produced something beautiful

ME.

(c) Karen Lighthouse 2023

Namaste.

Thanks for reading and take care until next time.