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Dear Reader,
First thing when I wake up in the morning I try to remember to ask myself, "What's the best way for me to spend my time today?" It's a question I ask out loud, not expecting an audible reply; because no one is listening except me. I'm not trying to assemble a "to-do" list, rather my question is a proclamation of sorts, hoping it will set the course for my day and be a reminder to follow my heart.
When I really listen to my heart, it seldom reflects the "to-do" list I'd crafted the day before. Following my heart, most days it takes a leap of faith as Shelley, a reader at the book club, reminded me years ago:
"Suzanne, I know I may be like a broken down record--but I do love your column--there are times when I'd love to shake you and say Suzanne wake up to who you are. But today I have to share with you that (in my humble opinion) the greatest piece of wisdom you have ever given yourself and shared with your visitors was: 'It's a joyful thing when I follow my heart.'
Do that consistently and regularly and your life will become what it is you desire. Sure it takes a leap of faith sometimes, yet my own experience has been when I do follow my heart, it does indeed all work out for the best--sometimes eventually--but more often than not rapidly. Thanks for being you."--Shelley
Therein lies the scary part of following my heart--the required leap of faith. A list of work items, I was brought up on that kind of logic, but no one schooled me about how to listen to my heart. No one even hinted that the answers and joy I search for in life are there for the taking.
I'm not suggesting that if I'd follow my heart, my life would flow merrily along; no problems, plenty of money, health and happiness, with a storybook ending. But in the midst of working my job, cleaning the house, shaving my legs, spending time with family and friends, feeling happy, and sad, or even scared to death about what lies ahead, it's an easier journey...when I follow my heart.
Thanks for reading with me. It's so good to read with friends.
Suzanne Beecher
Suzanne@DearReader.com
* This month's Penguin Classics book is THE TURNIP PRINCESS AND OTHER NEWLY DISCOVERED FAIRY TALES by Franz Xaver von Schonwerth. Start reading now and enter to win a Penguin tote bag: http://www.supportlibrary.com/bc/v.cfm?L=drclassqqxqT1AFE3FA7E22&c=CLASSICS
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