As we look back on August and transition into September, I’ve found myself reflecting on a theme that resonates deeply with many of us: learning to be good at being human. What does that mean? It means different things for everyone but for many, it means learning to navigate through old outdated patterns of impatience leading to giving up prematurely when things don’t go as planned, instead let’s practice how to dust ourselves off and get back on the saddle.
Last month, I opened up about some feelings of disappointment regarding expectations not quite panning out. I was reflecting on my patio garden, and even my storefront. This theme has been showing up everywhere, with my children and many of my clients. We’ve been discussing how to handle disappointment without becoming sore losers. Learning to be good at failing is an essential life skill that can keep our spirits light, encouraging resilience and growth.
Disappointment doesn’t just stem from my market experiences; it extends to the realization of how quickly life passes us by. As we prepare for the back-to-school season, there’s that underlying awareness that another summer has come and gone. This was for me another reminder of how short our time on Earth is and how essential it is to cultivate a sense of acceptance around these changes.
By learning to become more present and grateful for every situation that comes, I’m becoming better at letting go—whether it’s forgiving myself or others for perceived “failures”, leaning into discomfort, or loving where I am on the journey.
I’m learning the importance of pushing my comfort zone and breathing a little deeper into the unease that comes with being human and the uncertainties of change. To help me, I practice the Serenity Prayer: “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.
”Looking back at my recent experiences, I’ve witnessed the magic of shifting my focus. One Saturday, I set an intention to let go of the pressures and expectations I had for how my market would go. Instead, I committed to showing up as my best self, regardless of the turnout. That day, I was pleasantly surprised when multiple people visited the shop, and one lovely individual gifted me an exquisite scented candle after we connected. Moments like these serve as powerful reminders of the abundance we can experience when we shift our attention to the connections we’re building.
Another delightful experience happened when I strolled by my neighbor’s flower shop and admired a stunning plant. I casually mentioned to my kids how lovely it was, and later that day, during a delivery, a vendor gifted me a baby version of that exact plant!
And speaking of magic, this month, I also won concert tickets to the Paris Fair for two consecutive days to see two of my children’s favorite country singers, courtesy of Pure Country radio station in London!
These little gifts feel like clear affirmations from the universe, reminders that I’m am supported on my path and open to receiving the abundance available in our lives.
Gratitude has become a cornerstone of my journey. When I shift my focus from merely the outcomes to the experiences and connections along the way, something magical happens. I realize that almost every day is filled with moments of beauty and encouragement, waiting for us to notice and appreciate them.
Embracing this learning process means accepting that disappointment is part of life—even when it stings. It’s crucial to allow ourselves to feel those emotions and learn from them without letting them define us. By practicing acceptance while continuing to trust in the journey, we train ourselves to view “failure” as just another step toward growth.
So, as we are faced with September, let’s invite in a spirit of gratitude and welcome the learning opportunities that come our way. Let’s support one another in becoming better at this beautiful thing called life. There’s so much abundance around us—if we only take the time to notice, recognize, and appreciate it.
Let’s keep shining our light, treasuring the connections we make, and remembering to breathe a little deeper as we navigate discomfort. Here’s to learning together, growing together, and appreciating every moment, both joyful and challenging.
Sending you all love and light as we move into September!
In Gratitude, Chantal and Family
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