Lydia's Mission’s Post

I lost a dear friend this past week. Elizabeth was an extraordinarily vibrant, talented woman, and one of those frequent career reinventors that has always fascinated me. Grief is a universal experience and I’ve already been reminded how mentioning a loss can open the door to extraordinary conversations. Grief is also an invisible wound. Even though everyone who’s fortunate to live long enough will eventually experience it, there’s no way to know before you bring it up whether the person you’re talking to will be someone who “gets it.” And it’s so easy to forget that we’re surrounded by deeply wounded people everywhere we go. I can’t think of a better reason to JUST.BE.KIND. Always, and to everyone. In honor of Elizabeth this week, I wish you… * Decadent enjoyment of the things you love, as often as possible – for her that included plenty of strong black coffee, red wine, and dark chocolate * Deep and loving friendships with lots and lots of beautiful people * The kind of freedom of spirit that allows you to take those spur-of-the moment side trips – we never passed an ice cream shop when she was along * Laughter in abundance * Lots of shenanigans – the fun and harmless kind that remind you that you’re alive and most rules are arbitrary * Time for the things that feed your soul – spending time in nature, loving up your fur-babies, expressing your unique gifts * The courage to reinvent your career, as many times as it takes to satisfy your changing needs and desires, or to find THE ONE that allows you to live your best life and make your most valuable contribution to the world What’s one thing you do to feed your soul as often as possible? Please share in the comments! (Elizabeth would be honored. 😊 ) #Grief #Loss #Mourning #PersonalDevelopment #CareerBreakthrough #WhatsNext #CareerTips

August 07, 2019 The gratitude list - Page 229 "We focus on anything that isn't going our way and ignore all the beauty in our lives." Basic Text, p. 80 It's easy to be grateful when everything runs smoothly. If we get a raise at work, we're grateful. If we get married, we're grateful. If someone surprises us with a nice present or an unasked favor, we're grateful. But if we get fired, divorced, or disappointed, gratitude flies out the window. We find ourselves becoming obsessed with the things that are wrong, even though everything else may be wonderful. This is where we can use a gratitude list. We sit down with a pen and paper and list the people for whom we are grateful. We all have people who've supported us through life's upheavals. We list the spiritual assets we have attained, for we know we could never make it through our present circumstances without them. Last, but not least, we list our recovery itself. Whatever we have that we are grateful for goes on the list. We're sure to find that we have literally hundreds of things in our lives that inspire our gratitude. Even those of us who are suffering from an illness or who have lost all material wealth will find blessings of a spiritual nature for which we can be thankful. An awakening of the spirit is the most valuable gift an addict can receive. Just for Today: I will write a list of things, both material and spiritual, for which I am grateful.” Need help with addiction to alcohol or drugs? Call us at 336-553-6596 – we are here to help. #fellowshiphallnc #positivechange #treatmentworks #recovery #hopeandhealing #makingadifference #impactinglives #EndtheStigma #recoverymatters #treatment #strongertogether #wedorecover #recoveryjourney #12stepprogram #soberlife #drugrecovery #alcoholrecovery #hopeandhealing #supportandempowerment #addictiontreatment #AlcoholicsAnonymous #NarcoticsAnonymous #onedayatatime #RecoveryNC #SoberLiving #RecoveryResources #RecoveryIsPossible #RecoveryInspiration #SoberLifeNC #LifelongRecovery

Are you happy? That was a question to Jackie Chan, where he replied: "You know I once heard some really smart words: The tough job you complain about is the dream of someone who's unemployed. The cheeky kid that tests your patience is the dream of the childless. The tiny house you reckon is too cramped is the dream of someone who's homeless. The small savings you worry over is the dream of those drowning in debt. The health issues you reckon are burdensome are the dream of someone fighting a terminal illness. The fact that your mistakes aren't on display for the world to see is the dream of those haunted by their past. The peace of mind you have, the restful sleep you enjoy, the meal you easily access—these are dreams for those living in war-torn regions.” Gratitude, recognised as the highest frequency, not only allows us to appreciate every aspect of our lives but also attracts abundance into our existence. By cultivating gratitude, we invite more blessings and positivity into our lives. Let's take a moment to reflect on the blessings we have and express gratitude for the simple things that others may dream of having. PS: extremely grateful to be working with John Proctor who always asks the same question. #Gratitude #Perspective #Abundance #CherishWhatYouHave #grateful

August 07, 2019 The gratitude list - Page 229 "We focus on anything that isn't going our way and ignore all the beauty in our lives." Basic Text, p. 80 It's easy to be grateful when everything runs smoothly. If we get a raise at work, we're grateful. If we get married, we're grateful. If someone surprises us with a nice present or an unasked favor, we're grateful. But if we get fired, divorced, or disappointed, gratitude flies out the window. We find ourselves becoming obsessed with the things that are wrong, even though everything else may be wonderful. This is where we can use a gratitude list. We sit down with a pen and paper and list the people for whom we are grateful. We all have people who've supported us through life's upheavals. We list the spiritual assets we have attained, for we know we could never make it through our present circumstances without them. Last, but not least, we list our recovery itself. Whatever we have that we are grateful for goes on the list. We're sure to find that we have literally hundreds of things in our lives that inspire our gratitude. Even those of us who are suffering from an illness or who have lost all material wealth will find blessings of a spiritual nature for which we can be thankful. An awakening of the spirit is the most valuable gift an addict can receive. Just for Today: I will write a list of things, both material and spiritual, for which I am grateful.” Need help with addiction to alcohol or drugs? Call us at 336-553-6596 – we are here to help. #fellowshiphallnc #positivechange #treatmentworks #recovery #hopeandhealing #makingadifference #impactinglives #EndtheStigma #recoverymatters #treatment #strongertogether #wedorecover #recoveryjourney #12stepprogram #soberlife #drugrecovery #alcoholrecovery #hopeandhealing #supportandempowerment #addictiontreatment #AlcoholicsAnonymous #NarcoticsAnonymous #onedayatatime #RecoveryNC #SoberLiving #RecoveryResources #RecoveryIsPossible #RecoveryInspiration #SoberLifeNC #LifelongRecovery

This is what I mean when people ask, “do you have family close by?” and I say, “yes, about 30 minutes.” For me, spending time with family means going to Arlington National Cemetery. Since 2011, the closest we’ve been to family is a 13-hour drive. In all that time, we've only made it home for Christmas twice. Not because we didn't want to, but because this military life isn't always one of choice, it’s one of duty. Being a military spouse sometimes means navigating life’s hardest moments alone. It’s holding everything down (AND together) while your spouse is deployed or at training, raising kids who miss their parent and old friends, and doing it all thousands of miles away from family. It’s realizing that your kids grow up knowing the sound of their grandparents’ voices over the phone better than the warmth of their hug. It’s another #firstdayofschool that dad isn't here to see them off. The demands are relentless, and yet, there’s no manual for surviving the loneliness that comes with it. It’s impossible to anticipate the totality of the endless worry, the birthdays/holidays spent over FaceTime, and the milestones missed because “duty calls.” This life demands #resilience, even when the loneliness threatens to swallow you whole. I share this for understanding. For every military spouse who feels the weight of this life, who feels alone in the struggle: You are seen. For the every spouse who has packed up their lives more times than they can count, who has made new friends in every corner of the world, only to say goodbye when #PCSorders come again: I know this life isn’t easy, but you are not alone. Life is about finding your people and building connections that matter. How close is family? Did you recently move and are trying to find your new tribe? How do you build your support system? Keep putting yourself out there. Even though the bond may be temporary, the value of having someone to walk this journey with is immeasurable. So here I am, having coffee with my little brother. Telling him all the things about his niece and nephew, about life, and finding peace and connection. If you know a #militaryspouse, check in on them. They might not ask for help because handling the chaos alone is their norm, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need #support and #connection. #supportingmilitaryfamilies #militarylife #GoldStarFamily #community #militaryfamily #familyreadiness #Militarycommunity #lifeinservice #Lifeasamilitaryspouse #livingthedream #military #service

𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐚 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞. I'm deeply saddened to announce the unexpected passing of a fellow team member. This is a stark reminder of how unpredictable life can be, and how swiftly it can change. Let’s honor their memory by strengthening the ties that bind us. Let us be kinder, more compassionate, and more present for each other. Every moment we share is precious—let's make each one count, in and out of the workplace. In remembrance of our dear colleague, we encourage you to reach out to those you care about today. Tell them what they mean to you. Let’s pull together as a team and community, not just in our grief but in our daily actions and interactions. I wish I could tell this member of the team how much I valued him, both as a colleague and as a friend. Wait for me on the other side - life is short enough for me to say I'll be there soon too. Our hearts go out to their family, friends, and everyone affected by this loss. Together, we will remember and celebrate the life of a remarkable person who left us too soon. If you ever need help, someone to talk to about anything or help with something, reach out. Don't allow yourself to be alone. We're meant to be there for eachother. I want everyone to know you matter. To my friend - I'll see you again, if God wills. #InMemory #TeamSupport #LifeIsPrecious

A one-sentence story may have saved my life...but only because someone chose to tell it. When I returned from my last deployment, I struggled. The weight of a stressful year was heavy. During that year, I approved 760 airstrikes ...and watched many happen on big, grainy screens. I was never in physical danger. But I watched innocent people suffer. Some of them because of my decisions. I negotiated with Russians while they bombed hospitals. I had to say no to illegal, immoral orders. I questioned everything I believed about myself. I suffered moral injury. When I came home, I had nightmares. I couldn't see kids on the Metro without remembering the innocent Syrian children I saw on those screens. I'd been in therapy before. I knew I needed it again. But, I delayed. I made excuses. Nothing got better. I wasn't in a crisis, but I could see it from where I was. Until one day... I ran into a General I'd worked closely with while deployed. He was in rush, alone in the Pentagon Food Court. We shook hands. Then, he asked me a question. The RIGHT question. "Have you been to see someone to talk to since you've been back?" I hesitated...just for a second. Then, he told a short, life-saving story. "I did, and it helped me." It was a complete story in 6 words. Well...6 words plus him standing there alive. In his 6 words, he told me I was 'normal'. He shared an experience to let me know it wasn't 'just me.' In the moment, I committed to making an appointment. I did and started a year's-long journey to recovery ...one that is still going every day. If he'd not shared his story, I don't know what would have happened...but it wouldn't be anything good. Your story allows someone to see that they're 'normal'. Your story allows someone to learn from your experience ...without having to suffer your pain. Your story is potential. Your story can be life-saving. Your story can chip away at stigma. Your story can show there is another way. But only if you share it. I don't like telling this story. Old stories creep in telling me it's a mistake to share it. But, today is World Suicide Prevention Day, and if this story can show someone else they are just like the rest of us ...flawed, ...struggling, ...doubting themselves, ...avoiding the self-care we need (and deserve), ...worthy Then, sharing it is a small sacrifice. Has a short story changed your life? ------------------ Hi, I'm Dan. I'm a Storyteller.

What are you doing this weekend, and who are you doing it with? 💥 🤝 Today, I'm highlighting the importance of having people in our lives but let's start with the difficult bit first... 🙋♀️ There seems to be an increasing awareness of navigating death in the best way, which of course is good. However, it’s even better to realise that it’s possible to live in a way which means that we’re NEVER caught out by death. 👀 What do I mean?  Well, for one, we can tackle early the practical matters we all like to think won’t need attention for several decades ahead. “Boring” things like Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney (aren’t they for the very old?!). Painful things like making provision for minor children. Scary things like funeral plans, acute medical care, or old age! They might be challenging, but keeping the practicalities of our lives in good order and up-to-date is never a waste of time. ✔ But it’s not all tackling tough things!  It’s about building a life that’s based on what’s really important, and that’s all tied up with relationships. It’s all too easy to get caught up with what society tells us important – building a career, accumulating wealth and possessions, making a name for yourself, amazing holidays etc. It’s not that those things are bad, but all too often they displace the much more precious – people! 🏵 If we get these things right, our end-of-life journeys will be transformed! Whatever you're doing this weekend, enjoy it, and have fun with others 😊 #Family #friends #relationships #love #life

On a hazy afternoon working from home, I pause for a bit after lunch, and look out from the window of my first floor apartment. There is an under-construction home, where the labourers are sitting and having lunch right near the place which would eventually become the balcony. Eating from a steel tiffin surrounded by rubble and no sign of a fan, let alone AC, sometimes other people's conditions are a reminder. A reminder of being grateful for what we have. So many people would do anything to be where we are, even though where we are is a middle of a struggle. Does not mean we don't solve our problems. Of course, we do. However, if only we knew complaining wouldn't do the trick, rather gratitude for what we do have, would clear our headspace to think clearly. Your struggles are someone else's paradise. Your complains are your own prison. Choose wisely, every day 😊 S: If you liked this, you will love similar raw and real conversations every week in your inbox. Less than 5-min read. Sign up here: https://lnkd.in/gSsxSxpr

Let Granduncle/Uncle Patrick Share Some of My Favorite Bedtime Stories With You… When I was a child, I always wondered about some of the most popular fairy tales that were told to children all over the world for ages. For example, Jack and the Beanstalk. In short, Jack climbs a beanstalk and discovers a castle in the clouds where a giant lives. Isn’t he a trespasser? Jack steals from the giant, including a golden goose and a harp that plays beautiful music. Isn’t he a thief? The giant chases Jack down the beanstalk, but Jack cuts it down, causing the giant to fall to his death. Could he be charged with murder? Jack and his mother live happily ever after with their newfound wealth. Shouldn’t we criticize them for the ill-gotten wealth? Are these the values we want our children to learn and practice in real life? Next story, Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Goldilocks enters the home of three bears while they are away. Isn’t she an unwelcome intruder? She tries their porridge, chairs, and beds, finding the perfect fit in the smallest one. Would you let her do it in your home? Third story, Beauty and the Beast. Don’t you think the story perpetuates unhealthy beauty standards and reinforces stereotypes about appearance? That Belle is portrayed as beautiful, and is therefore assumed to be kind? The Beast is depicted as ugly, and is therefore assumed to be monstrous and cruel? Has the fairy tale painted a distorted value that love can fix abusive or toxic relationships? Victims should submit themselves to being abused in the name of love? More importantly, on life’s journey, could you have deliberately or unwittingly created unhealthy stories about yourself? Have you repeated these stories to yourself without realizing the harm and even destruction to yourself? Are there people who have gone through real-life stories and ended up learning the wrong morals from these stories? Examples as follows: “I can never make something good out of my life.” “I can never be a leader.” “I can never be successful.” “I can never be rich and wealthy.” “I can never make a positive difference to others.” “I can never make the world around me a better place.” So what stories are you telling yourself? Have you learned anything positive and constructive out of these stories? Life is nothing but a series of stories. The stories you hold close to your heart will shape the ultimate story - the story of your life. I pray that your story will be a good story. A story worth telling - one that will inspire others to craft their stories with positive endings and inspiring morals. So, what’s your story? Credit: Image created by Playground, an AI tool.