Creating our personal Tapestries

"Will you look back on your life and say, 'I wish I had, or I'm glad I did?'" 
~ Zig Ziglar

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When people inquire about our lives abroad, I always say that we are building a tapestry of experiences for us and for our family. The longest threads of our tapestry so far have been the time that we lived and worked in Japan. Hiroshima was home for Andy and I for a decade. Both our boys, Eli and Tai, were born here and so many memories created. I say 'here' because this is where we have chosen to return for our 2014 Christmas holiday vacation. 

Japan holds so many fond memories and I find myself feeling very nostalgic. I know that ruminating about my past here brings up so many joyful memories and sad ones too; the death of my father in 2004 and the passing of Andy's brother 15 years ago today in 1999. Despite some challenging moments, when I think back and without a doubt, I can say that I was genuinely happy here. 

Life passes us by so quickly at times that we neglect to realize that these special moments add to the complex combination of experiences that make up our own personal tapestries. Why does it take so long for me to realize this? As much as I try to be present, there are times I forget the importance of bringing mindfulness into my day. I want to be able to say I was there in that moment, fully embracing the ups and downs of whatever it was that I was experiencing at that time. 

How does Zig Ziglar's quote above resonate with you as you approach the holidays and time spent with or without your loved ones? Would love to hear your comments below. Slow down, stay well and shine on.

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