This birthday didn’t feel like I expected. I thought I would celebrate. I imagined kissing this past year goodbye without any desire to look back. Because in the words of one of my favorite country singers, “It’s been a hell of a year…”.

I didn’t get what I wanted. Three months of work didn’t move the needle in our favor. It’s a bit frightening and even more disappointing. Before the “what-if’s” and “could be’s” begin to flood my mind, I make coffee and go to the quiet place.

I’ve had this song on repeat for months now. One that continues to draw me because I wonder if it is true. And if so… then what does it look like to live it?

Some of us are thinkers (that’s me), some doers, and others are feelers. It’s kind of like being right-handed. It doesn’t mean we don’t use our left hand, it’s just not our natural first choice. Discovering this has helped me navigate life with more balance and grace.

Sometimes the best thing you can do for your soul is say out loud exactly how you feel. Say it to your closest friend, write it on a post-it note yell it if that helps.