Spring is
a time of rejuvenation. With winter finally melting away for good, we're able to fully appreciate the new life of this
delightful season. Tender young flowers and, later, brand new ducklings and goslings seem to remind us of the need
to renew parts of ourselves that may have been dormant for many cold months. The busy holiday preparations in December and
April took precedence over activities that allow us to nurture our bodies and our minds: an invigorating outdoor bike ride,
a quiet afternoon with a thought-provoking novel, or an early-morning run breathing deeply of the sweet, smog-free morning
air.
Spring is also the perfect opportunity to wake up parts of our lives that may have become dormant. Most of us are too
busy on the 21st century treadmill of text messages, TiVOs and trips to Target to have the time to reflect on the
dreams that we had before the demands of adulthood took over every waking moment - and moments previously reserved for sleep
as well. Perhaps you had a great idea for a patentable invention, or you had the perfect plot-line for the next
Great American Novel, or you had planned to create a non-profit organization which would put your corporate skills to the
service of those in need. Realizing those dreams is not impossible and pursuing your dreams is part of becoming
a fully actualized human being.
People who are fulfilled are healthier individuals who are better able to serve families, careers, and communities.
Not sure of what your passion in life might be? Begin by finding opportunities
for quiet time. Whether you wake up an hour earlier – before the house
is bustling with morning activity – or decline a lunch date in favor of an hour of solitude, finding real down time
(no TV allowed) is key. Doing so helps to remove the weighty clutter that can
prevent you from developing a clear picture of your loftiest dreams. Once you
know what you want to accomplish, follow this piece of advice from Winston Churchill: Never, never, never give up. Enjoy the journey!
Deidre S. Maccannon, a women's health expert, and Senovia Ross, a licensed marriage and family therapist, are co-founders
of Awakenings 360º (http://www.Awakenings360.com).
Copyright © 2007 Awakenings 360°
