There she is, Roxy-girl, our beloved dog....

Yesterday, our family experienced suffering and joy in the same moments, as we had to put our sweet Roxy to sleep.  We suffered greatly and cried many tears as we said goodbye, yet laughed, as we thought back on the wonderful memories she had given us. 

I love this picture of Roxy because her eyes are the river to her soul, and her soul was as pure as the clearest stream in nature.  Her love was a constant flow in our lives, no matter how late we came home!  She listened deeply to each family member and gave each of us what we needed at that moment, just as the streams give the lakes the water they need.  Her gentle pawing would remind us to be more present in the moment.  Roxy loved anybody who walked through our door and loved them equally.  There was a kind and gentle way about her soul, like the stream gently moving the leaves fallen from the trees in late October.

I will miss our walks in the late summer hours.  The kids will miss her on the dock, and having her beside us as we cross country ski on the frozen lake.  Todd will miss her on their adventures in the woods. Our family will miss having her laying on her bed during dinner, and her walking to the bread drawer whenever she heard the noise...which was always followed by a disapproving look from Todd!

Even though our family suffered a loss, at least we were given the gift of Roxy's unconditional love, and the joy of her love.  It is possible to experience joy and suffering in the same moment, as long as your heart is open enough to experience both.

Shine Brightly Amongst the Billions

Special Olympics...

Well, it has been a while since I have posted.  Ok, more like a year, but I think I have this new format figured out. 

Why Special Olympics you ask?  Simple.  Working with the athletes and the organization aligns my soul's compass with its North Star...and isn't that what everybody is searching for in life?

All too often, we run around over scheduling ourselves, jetting from point A to B, or "pinning" what we love. Hello, my name is Shelley, and I am a Pinner of the wee hours.  Sorry, I digressed. My point is, find the passion deep in your soul. The kind of passion which lights your heart on fire.  Passion so intense, you are a force to be reckoned with on numerous levels!  Stop looking for your purpose in life if there is not passion behind what you are doing. 

I am talking about the type of passion which evokes a feeling of wonder.  The kind of passion when you look up at the evening sky and think, I am just like one of those stars.  I am the one shining brightly amongst billions.  When we are true to our authentic self and listen to our soul, it will lead us to our North Star. Purpose in life is not always easy to define, but I promise you, when you are aware what your soul is saying, your purpose will unfold before your eyes.  May you find joy in the little miracles every day, but more importantly, may you find your North Star and shine brightly amongst the billions.