All You Need is a Hot Bath and a Glass of…
It was a fantastic fall day with a thick marine layer covering the sky, dropping the temperature to the low sixties. It felt like an oasis in the middle of September when it is usually very hot and dry in SoCal, especially in the San Fernando Valley.
Driving home after a twelve-hour workday, I remembered a quote I read just a few days ago, about living life to its fullest and not waiting for two weeks of paid vacation to be happy.
But wait-a-second — I don’t have two weeks of paid vacation. In fact, I don’t even remember when I took two weeks off work. What does that mean? Am I living life to its fullest? Do I even have a life? I stepped on the gas pedal, rushing to get home.
That thought quickly disappeared as I got closer. I didn’t have the time and energy or perhaps the courage to look for an answer. A hot bubble bath and glass of red blend overtook my thoughts. I don’t usually have this kind of luxury on a Monday evening.
My two young daughters were at their mother’s, so no one needed my help or attention. If you have young kids, you understand. As a business owner and a father, making time for myself requires considerable effort. This evening was a treat.
While leisurely soaking and sipping, I asked myself again — am I living my life to the fullest? The thought from my ride home came back to haunt me.
Whether the alcohol hit the bloodstream or the body relaxed in the water, I suddenly felt immense gratitude. I didn’t really care how I got there. I was having a true moment. I felt a serene peace in my heart; a warm, settled feeling filled my chest. I felt grounded and relaxed. Life was amazing — at that moment. Everything was right with the world.
I started thinking about everything positive in my life. I have two smart, beautiful, healthy daughters. I have a great relationship with my family, clients, and friends. I love my job. I found a lifelong partner who is more than I could ever have hoped for. I am loved and appreciated.
Life is all about these moments. We don’t necessarily need a vacation in the Caribbean. Don’t get me wrong. I would totally go if I had the opportunity, but we can fill our hearts with gratitude and feel blessed and grounded in our own home. We can be profoundly happy — free of charge.
I often can’t wait to go home and spend time with my daughters, or cook my favorite meal, or read a great book. Sometimes, I look forward to waking up in the morning just to do it all over again. I am happy to be alive and pain-free. My number one priority every day is to have moments like these. Whether I invite friends over for dinner, plan a night out, or create some intimate and vulnerable moments throughout the day, my weeks are sporadically filled with love, gratitude, and authenticity.
I genuinely believe that moments of gratitude bring us peace and make life worth living. If you wish to create a meaningful life, surround yourself with like-minded people. Set challenging goals and always strive to improve yourself. Work hard; give one hundred percent to everything you do. Don’t be afraid to acknowledge and share your feelings with others. Take one day at a time or even one hour at a time. That’s how I bring value to my life. That’s how you can do it as well.
You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough. Let that become your mantra. Think of your life as a slice of cheesecake. Eat it slowly, enjoy every bite, and share!
Definitely share.
Cheers,
Leo