I find myself becoming introspective this time of year. I shift from my version of winter
hibernation and I spring into action noticing all of the changes around me and within me.

Once again, I’m entering a new season and notice how I’m aging but I also discover
another reason to fall in love with myself again just as I am today. I look at nature and
embrace how it appears each season and the beautiful changes it brings.

In the fall, many take trips to photograph the bright colored leaves as they die off the
trees but when our bodies show signs of change we tend to not accept it and even try to
stop it. We all have moments where we believe that whatever is happening to others will
not happen to us.

Nothing stays the same, the world outside is changing, we are changing, and the only
control we have is how we approach each new season of life.

I see my body change, just like everything else. I want to join it, and not to separate
myself from the process. It frees me when I am part of the change. I am not a slave to
the youth or to my past. I love who I am today. I am grateful to be here and my renewed
self-love nourishes me and inspires me to blossom and bloom just like the daffodils
outside.

I was interested to learn that gratitude and renewal are a common thread through
Passover, Easter and Ramadan. I recognize that it’s a great time to pause and reflect
on the many blessings we have and that we can share with others.

Take this time to renew your self-love and celebrate who you are with deep gratitude.