Leaving the spiritual epicenter of the Floridian islands, and heading to the overindulgent outskirts of New York City can be draining on the soul. To keep my spirits high, I take along these 5 fantastic spiritual sayings– from 5 fantastic, successful everyday people — I’ve met on my journey:
1. “No one is better than you — not even the ground because you step on it — only God is better,” – Galle Sanchez , Islamorada
FL: Awesome business woman, super mom, loving friend
Living in the prestigious northeastern region of the United States is awe inspiring. The farms, fresh foods and running horses are all a vision of a picture perfect utopic setting. But somehow, this pseudo-utopia becomes all consuming and soul draining with the long working hours required to afford the high cost of living. And for me, being the only curvy mom in a world of model-esque mommies — combined with sacrifices we make to live here — is spiritual sabotage. But Galle –who worked her way from being a single mom to a successful entrepreneur — understands that sacrifice means success. She also knows success means never letting yourself think anyone is above you, other than God.
2. “If something is on your mind, do it now, before you forget and regret not doing it,” – Colleen Hammon, Tavernier
FL: Spiritual leader, loving mom and grandmother
Colleen, and her husband Tony, are spiritual leaders in our small Floridian community. She is always encouraging children, parents and friends to not only be the best person they can be, but to also follow their heart in all circumstances. Colleen’s good advise is bestowed upon us so that we should live our life with no regrets.
3. “When you are where your heart desires, you can accomplish anything,” – Ian Meurer, Mt. Pleasant
SC: Great dad, adoring husband, super runner
My dear friend Christine and her husband Ian are an inspiring couple. Two years ago they packed up their lives and moved 800 miles south to find a more fulfilling life for their family. These few years later, they are happily settled and loving all the great aspects of a southern lifestyle. One night, over way too many mojitos, Ian gave me this advise. When we seek out and find what we love — and do it with who you love — it leads us to a happier, more contented life.
4. “And this too shall pass,” – Mi Padre, Jersey City
NJ: Marvelous business man and survivor of Patten’s 3rd Army.
Dad would say this every time something unfavorable would occur. After having survived the Great Depression and World War II, he know that all things come to pass — even the bad things — and that in time not only did we become stronger from the lesson, we gain experience and wisdom which makes us stronger and wiser.
5. “I’m learning to accept it,” – Dan Barrett, Budd Lake
NJ: Aspiring marketing guru and adorable nephew.
A few weeks ago, Dan and I were having one of those 1 a.m. conversations about life. And, as he was making his way through a story, he said that he was learning to accept certain people and situations as they are, as well as learning to accept himself for as he is. Now just because I see Dan as a smart, loving and funny doesn’t mean that sees himself that way. Isn’t that true of all of us. So let’s take this next step to not accept ourselves with our faults but to also try to see ourselves as those who love us do.
Featured photo credit: Angel, Marin Resnick via flickr.com
