As I was busy working in the garden this week – one of my favourite things to do – the word – ‘contentment’ – came to mind – and I realised – as this quote says – that – “My heart and mind are filled with contentment”.

It was as though I was surrounded by such peace – and a sense of gratitude – for all the precious things in my life – those things that bring me so much pleasure – and I truly do consider myself blessed.

It’s not just the gardening that makes me feel so content- but much about my life – and the journey that I find myself on.

Someone once said that – “Contentment is a state of mind – that arises from gratitude and inner peace – rather than eternal circumstances” – and I find that so true – “it’s not our circumstances that create our discontent – or content – it is us – down to our state of mind”.

The circumstances of my life have changed drastically over the past years – as we have gone through loss – and grief – and embarked on a journey that has taken us along so many different paths.

Yet – over that time – I have found much more – ‘inner peace’ – as I have stepped back – as it were – and recognised just how much of my life I have lived striving to be ‘better’ – as though I needed to ‘fix myself’ – as though I wasn’t good enough – even for God – but now – “I realise – that I don’t have to be perfect – all I have to do is show up – and enjoy the messy – imperfect – and beautiful journey of my life”

And I truly am content – and loving the simpler life that I seem to have adopted. I find it suits me so much better – the much more introverted self – that I have discovered I am – happy with the quieter – simple things of life – happy to be free – to be me.

The journey is made easier – because I have that inner peace and gratitude – I am content – which for me – is a blessing I never want to take for granted.

Blessings – Lois