After enjoying a ‘coffee and chat’ with a friend one day this week – I was filled with a feeling of gratitude – for the very fact – that there are those in my life with whom I feel free to be totally myself – with no fear of judgement – just total acceptance – and so – I say – “Thankyou – to the special people in my life – who have listened without judgement – helped without conditions – understood with empathy – and loved me no matter what”

Over recent months – I have been on a ‘journey of discovery’ – and in fact – am still on that journey. I have become more aware of the importance of being more true to who I really am – to recognise that – for most of my life – I have lived seeking to fulfil the expectations of others – gone along with so much without question – and – in a sense – not allowed myself to grow – to enjoy discovering new things – about myself – and also – even my beliefs.

I know that this is hard for many to understand – and – I appreciate the concern shown – by those who maybe fear for where my path may be leading – as it diverges away from the one I have travelled for so long.

That is why I am so grateful – for those who simply walk with me – friends who – “Know me as I am – understand where I have been – accept what I have become – and still – gently allow me to grow” – allow me to even walk along a different path – and share my discoveries – accepting without judgement – and allowing me to be free.

And so – while I am sorry – that some may not understand – I continue my journey – appreciating that some may struggle – for- as this quote says – “Those around you may not understand your journey – simply because they haven’t walked along your path” – and that is totally true – for how can any of us really identify – or even begin to understand- the deepest thoughts and feelings of someone else – of where they have been – or where they are going.

It’s not easy at times – to walk that different path – but – “You have to do what is right for yourself – nobody else is walking in your shoes” – and that is something that I have found the courage to do – to recognise what is right for me – at this present time in my life – what is it that I need – what helps me on my journey – and – I have to say – that I am finding my shoes very comfortable to walk in!

I am also encountering others along the way – those who spur me on – encourage me – those who are walking along a similar path – and that gives me strength – fills me with hope – and enables me to face the future without fear.

And – as I encounter others – on their own individual journeys – I want to extend to them – the same acceptance that is being given to me – ‘acceptance without judgement’ – that same ‘help without condition’ – ‘understanding with empathy’ – and- that same – ‘love – no matter what’.

Blessings – Lois