Kim Pentecost

We are living in challenging times. A lot is being asked of each of us. Many are reacting to these demands with fear, depression or some other self-diminishing program. Spirit is asking us to stop these unloving behaviors and wake up NOW. Waking up is easier than you think and it makes more sense in the whole scheme of life. Also, it is beneficial to your health, attracts positive people and experiences and is significantly more FUN. The call to become more aware through these challenges is, in truth, an opportunity to let go of the old reactions once and for all and to live in grace and brilliance. In living a conscious life, you become extraordinary.

You all have read that this event of my croning (becoming an elder, for men) has offered me time to look at whom I am, what I have accomplished and how I have lived. It is also giving me the opening to choose how I live for the next 56 years. What do I want to experience? What kind of legacy do I want to leave? Will I love enough? Laugh enough? Sing enough? Will I give enough? Listen with my heart enough? Cherish enough? Will I live authentically?

I am blessed and I know it - finally. There were times when I couldn’t feel the blessings. It is abundantly clear to me every day that I have: amazing children, beautiful and loving friends, an interesting family and a career that allows me to learn from powerful and dedicated souls. My kitties entertain me and make me laugh – their antics remind me to play. I walk on the beach as often as I want. So, how do I not become complacent, but continue to grow and participate joyfully in the world?

The same way you do; by continuing to ask the big question: “What is in my heart?” A wise soul brought to my attention that we do not always own our lives. Some of us live as though we are waiting for something outside of self to change us. Some habitually side-step life’s opportunities. Some wallow in regret or guilt: Why? Why would we cheat ourselves out of the bounty of astounding experiences that are at our fingertips? (This is more of a rhetorical question. Each of us has our own excuses so I will not dwell here.)

I now understand – in my heart of hearts. Life is today. We are here. I have not always embraced my life. I have scooted around the edges of joy and taken a backseat to happiness. I have given up opportunity in the name of responsibility. (It was actually thinly veiled fear . . .) No more. I don’t have time. My life is, perhaps, half over. (What a strange reality to face!) And given that, I am choosing to listen to my heart and live accordingly. Here is a quote that sums it up:

“If you had one goal, and that was to feel good, you would never again need to hear another word from anyone. You would live successfully and happily and in a way of fulfilling your life's purpose ever after.”
~ Abraham

Abraham is not saying that we need not take responsibility. In fact, taking responsibility for one’s life and living in integrity brings great joy and peace. It is taking ownership of one’s life and is truly part of living an extraordinary life.

So, to paraphrase my own question, a question I will ask myself each morning for the rest of my life, “What shall I do today to embrace my extraordinary self and live and extraordinary day?” I choose to leave a legacy of joy, adventure and personal responsibility. I choose to listen quietly with compassion and love. I choose to laugh out loud and often. I choose to be present with my children, friends and community in the big and the small moments. I choose to truly feel the goodness of humanity. I choose to help the world in the best ways I can. Each action I take will be in the experience of feeling good. Feeling good gives me more energy, more life, more love - more of everything and, therefore, more to share. I choose to live an extraordinary life.

I offer this birthday wish to you. Look at your life. This is your life now, 24-7. Don’t wait because, as it is said, “There is no tomorrow.” Know that you chose this life. Own it as it belongs to no one else. No one else is responsible for you or your life. No one else can bring to the world what you do. Know that you are deeply loved. Know that your are important (or you wouldn’t be here.) Embrace your unique self. Live your life to the fullest.

With much love, gratitude and wishes for an extraordinary life!

Kim