We're often praised for our strength, resilience, and ability to take care of others. We're the nurturers, the caregivers, the ones who put everyone else's needs before our own. But what happens when this self-sufficiency becomes a burden rather than a blessing? When despite all our efforts to support others, we find ourselves feeling unfulfilled and neglected?

Life has a way of presenting us with challenges that shake us to our core, testing our resilience and faith. One of the most harrowing experiences I have ever faced was the possibility of receiving a cancer diagnosis for my teenage son. The moment we heard that it might be cancer, our world was turned upside down, thrusting us into a vortex of fear and uncertainty. The darkness felt all-consuming, and the weight of the unknown was nearly unbearable. Yet, amidst this turmoil, there lay an opportunity to tap into a profound trust in a higher power and our higher selves.

When it comes to fear and anxiety, they often appear and feel very real. These are genuine thoughts and emotions that can easily dominate our perception of reality. However, it's important to remember that these feelings often stop at the level of thoughts and emotions. This realization is crucial because too often, we try to eliminate these feelings before we start living a life true to ourselves and our purpose.

Deciding to separate from my husband after many years together wasn't easy. It was a time of intense emotions, uncertainty, and fear. With five kids, we worried about how it would affect them and our family life. The memories and history we shared made the thought of splitting up even harder to bear.

Life often feels like a relentless series of events and circumstances that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and out of control. For a long time, I found myself constantly reacting to these external factors—problems, issues, or even positive events—without realizing the toll it was taking on my mental and emotional well-being. This constant state of reaction, where my peace and happiness were at the mercy of my surroundings, left me feeling anxious and unsettled.

Listening is a fundamental part of communication, yet truly effective listening goes far beyond just hearing words. Over time, my understanding of what it means to listen has evolved dramatically. I once believed that listening meant simply hearing the other person, thinking of questions I could ask, and then sharing my stories, input, or advice. However, as I began to pay closer attention to how I listened, I realized that I wasn't the listener I aspired to be. I needed to practice and refine my approach to become a more effective listener.