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Crossing forty is fun and now I'm loving it!

As I battle winter's blues with cozy blankets and warm sweaters, I can't help saying that during my teenage years, I always dreaded turning forty years old. Two years ago, I panicked as my health took a bit of a real hit and my stress levels soared. Now in fact, I am loving it! [READ: Say a Little Prayer for Me!]

                                                                    [Image: Reshot.com]

I no longer feel the need to prove anything to myself or to others. I am at peace with the person I am. Every day, I feel that the whole Universe is opening up to embrace me, watch me grow into a being that is constantly evolving. 


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Turning older has made me very cautious about the kind of people I spend my time and conversations with. I stay away from "energy vampires" - sometimes we all run into people who are so full of complaints and negative energy that once they leave, their vibes drain our positive energy! Nowadays I keep a safe distance from 'energy vampires' simply because I want to protect my energy.

The past few years have taught me that every interaction and relationship is based on a valuable exchange of energy. Now I value my energy and that of others more than ever before. The truth is that I enjoy more freedom today in my personal space than I ever did as a teenager. I don't have to worry about what "friends say about me" because it no longer defines me. I make my own choices and I am always ready to face the consequences. Wish I had gone through this phase during my teenage years instead! 

When I step into the sun lit path, I send a prayer of gratitude to Swami for the light that warms my skin and the joy it brings my heart. On evening walks, I send love energy to the moon, the stars and the night sky. 

The faces of the people I love and respect swim like a blur of moonshine before my eyes and I say a prayer of gratitude for all of them. 

The best part is that I can live the life of my dreams.  Today, I have matured emotionally and spiritually. The self-critical, self mocking voice in my head has mellowed to one that embraces self-love and self-nurturing.

Whatever I do, I remind myself of Swami's beautiful teaching, "Be simple, be sincere. " [READ: Lost someone you loved?]

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The best gift we can give ourselves and our loved ones is authenticity in everything we say and do.  [The Wisest Lesson I learned in 2018] 
                    

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I'd love to know what phase you are going through at your age! Do write in!

If I may, let me just tell you this: The present is precious, so I pray that you are enjoying every moment with your Self. And if you love to read real-life inspirational stories, here's one that you shouldn't miss! DO READ: The Amazing Story of Peddabottu

Never thought I would love crossing the age of forty. But now I'm loving it!

Comments

This is so beautiful to read. I felt calm and serene within and am actually looking fwd to my 40s now. Thank you so much sister.
Swapna Raghu Sanand said…
Dear brother @AravindBalasubramanya, it's great to know that you found this post beautiful to read. It is what I had hoped for based on my own roller coaster ride with the 40s.
Vishnu said…
Welcome to the 4 0 club Swapna. I appreciate the wisdom and calmness here. Also, the older we get, the more we know what we want out of our lives and are more able to live in alignment with our truth. Peace and regards - Vishnu

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