Old Friends and regaining perspective

It’s funny how we forget the importance of the people of our past.  Whether it’s an only friend you grew up with, a co-worker that you haven’t seen in years, or a family member that you don’t see very often the memories we shared still link us together.  This last week I saw some faces from that past and had some wonderful conversations with people that who I had lost touch with, because we decided to follow different paths in life that brought a warmth to my heart.  The fact that when we saw each other we could hug, smile, laugh and pick up right where we left off, was amazing.  They really made me feel like I was an important part of their life, and the fact that I hadn’t been involved in their present lives didn’t matter.  I felt how much they cared about me and where glad to see me and it was like there was no distance at all.  Friendships are something that once created can never be dissolved.  Oh yes, they can be broken, or injured by words or actions, but once someone is embedded in your heart and mind, you cannot remove them.  No surgeon in the world is that good.  I am thankful that I don’t have any past friendships that are broken or injured.  I am grateful that I have the ability to say I love and miss you in my life, to the people who have touched my past.  I am presently struggling with some inner emotions and some physical changes (got to love menopause) that I don’t like. I am trying to keep in perspective what brings me happiness and how to prioritize my life so that I can enjoy that happiness and what I have realized is all the people of my past and present care about my happiness and are willing to be there for me. So I would like to tell you all, that I love you and I am thankful for you all, whether I met you yesterday or 50 years ago. I thank God that you are and always will be embedded in my heart.

God Bless

A big step into the world of Gina, Don’t go through life FINE.

  I’m sure some of you are wondering what had happened to me.  Well I did too.  This fun loving, social, outgoing person most of you know, kind of took a detour.  Over the last few months I learned that I am really good at hiding what is going on inside, but I finally had to face reality and take off the smiling mask and talk to someone.  I learned why you go to a therapist and how they can help.  I learned that depression is not just something that you can HANDLE. I learned that saying everything is FINE, or I am FINE, or I DON’T CARE alot, is not okay.  FINE is now a four letter word.  You should never just be FINE, you should be good, or great and yes there are times where you are going to a bad day but when those happen say today sucked, but do not go through life FINE.  I learned that you can go through all kinds of chemical imbalances, especially with other things happening in your life like menopause and empty nest syndrome and not even know  it until your husband (God love him) and your friends tell you “you’re not yourself” and you need to do something.  So I did.  I took a few weeks and made some baby steps, started some medication, therapy and took a much needed vacation.   I feel better but understand that it is something that takes time and with these baby steps I am beginning another new journey into Gina. 

I am continuing to grow my travel business, as most of you know I am busy arranging a group cruise for next year (hope you will join me). I am continuing to work full time, (got to pay the bills), but I am taking time for Gina.  I understand now that becoming overwhelmed with life’s struggles is not a weakness, and actually being able to admit that you need to lean on those closest to you is a sign of strength. 

So as Easter approaches and we celebrate new life with Jesus, take a minute and celebrate your own life.  Look at the beauty around you even in the midst of everyday chaos and ugliness and you will find a sense of peace.  Step back breath and say life is good, look in the mirror and smile.  I want to thank all of you for your support and love and I hope you all have a blessed Easter and I hope each and every one of you are having GREAT day. 

Please remember to share this and comment, I would love to know your thoughts.