I’m not sure that we’re ever ready for a loved one to pass away. Even after all this time, I am still not ready. Yet, these reflections on grieving are radiant with life because to have loved has turned out to mean: to have lived. What greater gift could I, my living soul, have asked for?

Note to self: you are already everything you think you need. These ten notes are brief yet powerful reminders that you’ve just forgotten how incredibly rich and capable you already are. This might be exactly what you need to hear (from yourself) today.

If you meditate on the things you can control (and your list will likely be different from mine), then you’ll naturally feel more in control. Feel more in control, and you will radiate confidence and courage out into the universe. And the universe is listening…

Instead of resorting to the same old “How was your day?” try asking questions that inspire more meaningful and enjoyable end-of-day conversations with your loved ones. Here are some ideas to help you celebrate and support the people you share your home and life with.

When you shine, you’re not the only one who benefits. Shine, and you’ll give others a reason to shine too. Take care of yourself, and you send an invitation for others to do the same. Stronger relationships are forged from the loving acts we each take, privately within ourselves and out in the world.

There are about 32184742 self-care tips out there. Honestly, there are probably way more than that. Real self-care doesn’t need to be another item on your checklist, though. It's not really about the thing. About what you do. It should be about HOW you approach all those other things.

If I could tell my twelve-year-old self anything, I’m sure that the words “believe in your dreams” would pour from my lips. Today I’m celebrating the dreams we’re all capable of living and the people we’re capable of growing into.

Friendship is a solid foundation for any relationship. Keep and carry this relationship advice with you to help you shine your light and be a blessing to others, especially when you'd rather not be nice. Showing up with love, whatever the occasion, is the best way to create a more loving world.

By changing how you approach life, you influence how life approaches you. Let this post inspire you to step away from your busy life and see life differently, with attention and appreciation.

What hurts makes you stronger? Maybe; it depends, really. Suffering is not something I would celebrate or suggest, but, as I’ve noticed is an underlying theme in life, there seems to be some good mixed with the bad. Some treasure in the ruin and the potential for growth through suffering.