I Can Remember...

There are hidden corners in my memory where I store away those sacred moments or memories that awaken my true self. I use them as my "recharge button."

You know those days where you wake up and you feel like you already have a "work hangover" from that day... and it hasn't even started? Or a food hangover from the night before of indulging? Or just an energy hangover from someone that was draining?
Those are the days I wake up not feeling like myself. I feel like I need to start over, or regain my strength with something inspiring. I now know that I am useless for my clients if I have not recharged myself, or at least cleared the residue of negative (or drained) thinking.

Those are the times when I sift through the archives of great memories. Once I feel the smile spread across my face (regarding a memory) then I know that my mind has focused on something more useful, and the "recharge" has begun. Most of the time these memories are the ones where someone displayed a selfless act, or just inspired me with being who they fully were! Nothing gives me more useful energy than remembering how we can help each other. The good news is the everyday people in our lives play some of the best angels!

Some "Recharge Memories" of Mine

I can remember... when I was 16 years old, and I had been cast as the lead in my High School play. At the time my Grandfather was very ill with throat cancer and he had a difficult time leaving the house due to the pain. I had prepared myself and my lines for opening night, but I hadn't prepared myself for seeing my Granddad in the 3rd isle-with the rest of my family--watching me with a big smile on his face. I can remember my energy soaring that night as I realized the pain he must have endured to see me that night. My heart ached at the courage and dedication he demonstrated. It was a true act of selflessness, and he single-handedly changed the course of my life (and how I see things), that very night.


I can remember... the year I moved to San Diego. I had fallen ill with a strong case of anxiety. This was not just any anxiety... this was the kind that crippled you, and made you feel fearful of everything. Ever since I was a child I had dreamed of dancing! It was what fueled my heart the most. So, when I got the offer to audition for a dance piece at my college, I quickly signed up and got my dance clothes ready for the next day audition. At the time, I didn't own a car... and I had to take a 30 minute bus trip to the audition. As I was walking to the bus stop, I came up with all the reasons why I shouldn't audition. I was 2 seconds short of running back home, when a young girl--about 22 years old--approached me and asked where I was going. She noticed my dance gear and I noticed her wheel chair. She couldn't have been more cheerful, so before I knew it we had started a conversation and the bus was already there to pick us up. I didn't have time to run back!
She pulled her wheelchair up beside me on the bus and asked me all about dancing. Her eyes lit up when I told her where I was going. When the bus finally came to her stop, she held my hand and closed her eyes for a brief moment... and then she said,
"Will you dance for me today?"
"I've always dreamed of being a dancer, and I can only do it in my mind." "Can I imagine you auditioning?" "It would give me the greatest joy to see you getting that part!"
As tears rolled down my cheeks, she rolled her wheelchair down the isle of the bus. She waved before she got off, and I instantly felt the energy I needed to dance.
Later that day, I danced joyfully for her AND fearlessly for me... and landed the part!
Even if I hadn't landed the part. She had restored my energy with her zest for life, and her fearless attitude.


I can remember... a 5 year old client I saw last year. We were working with her recurring bouts of wetting the bed at night. *Energetically speaking we usually see this issue as one of fear. So, I started asking her questions of what she might be fearful of at night, or even during the day. The answers that came from her mouth were incredibly insightful.
She told me that she was afraid of growing older. When I asked her why, she said that "you forget to play when you get old." She said, "If I get better, will you teach my Mom how to play again?"
I asked her why her Mom doesn't play, and she said "She doesn't play anymore because she's always sad."
I asked her what life would be like if she could always play. She said, "Perfect!"
I find such a peace in hearing the innate wisdom of children. If only we could remember to keep these insights and that candid nature as we grow older.
That little girl reminded me to play again! I now play as much as I can!


I hold these memories close to my heart as great reminders to show up for myself and others. There are so many more, and I find it reassuring and peaceful to know that all I need is a few quick memories to re-boot my day. Try writing down some of your fondest memories, and see how fast you start feeling a boost of energy.
What memories are you making for others right now?

Here's to living fully!