by Serena Argens, Rise & Shine Bright Founder & Coach
I was beating myself up as I wanted to have more updates to share with this community this month and I was struggling to land on a new topic to write about.
I took a step back to reflect on this more and realized there was a simple message that I could pass along right now that is - hopefully - more meaningful than lots of things to share. Just like this season is about more than receiving lots of things.
When I look back on last month, I had so many exciting projects in the works. They all sort of lost momentum when I learned a dear friend, a member of my chosen family, was losing his hard fought battle with cancer. If I’m honest with myself, not only was his battle an ever-present topic for our family over the past few years, but watching a loved one face their own mortality really forces you to consider your own. It awakens you to the reality that a long and prosperous life is not a guarantee for all of us. Life is precious and therefore should be cherished like the precious gift it is.
A little over a month ago, we went from the jarring news that we would only have months left with our friend to it turning into only a matter of days. It was heart-wrenching to watch our friend and his family, who have become family, face this…but it also put so much into perspective. Life is not measured by its length, but by its depth. It’s depth of love as well as light.
Some will send “love and light” to offer their condolences to someone. I received this from friends over the past few weeks and I offered it out to those I care about as well. I also spent a little time reflecting on what it means to me, especially this time of year.
It’s easy to be consumed with overwhelm and stress around the holidays, regardless of what you celebrate, there seems to be a pressure to make everything perfect. It can also be a time when some people feel lonely, despite the crowds. When they feel overwhelmed with wants, instead of grateful for what they have. It can also be a time when we deeply miss those that are no longer with us.
To me, living a life full of love is one where love is given just as much as it’s received, but there is no keeping score. It’s a life where one feels seen and free to be themselves, content knowing they are accepted just as they are. It’s a life where we take advantage of each opportunity to tell loved ones just how much they mean to us. A life full of light is one that shines with joy, exuberance, and gratitude. This light can be contagious and help brighten the path for others, particularly during dark periods. I was reminded recently how much laughter can brighten even the darkest moments.
My hope in this short message is to remind you to find time to slow down and embrace all that you have around you this holiday season, particularly this precious life we are lucky to be living.
I also want to thank you for your incredible support this past year as I got Rise & Shine Bright off the ground. I would not be where I am today without each and every one of you - thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I am sending you an abundance of love and light this month that I hope will carry into a prosperous new year!