Omayra Acevedo, Peak to Peak. A few hours ago, I came to the realization that I’ll be turning 40 soon. As I began to self-reflect, I found myself in a bizarre corkscrew rollercoaster of emotions.  I know for a fact I still have a lot to learn and a lot to do in this lifetime. I guess I just thought I’d be in a different place in my life by now. As quickly as disappointment began to set in, I became unbelievably grateful for the patience I practice. Some days are easier than others to be patient with oneself, but without a doubt, it is always worth it. 

So, what is it? What is it that I desire most in this life? Honestly? Simple. That is all I want. I want simple. I want to be healthy; I want to be happy and I want comfort. It seems as if most people want these things. Some want more, others a little less. I wonder if all of you are in a place you thought you’d be. I sure hope so. 

I think it’s common to be critical of oneself. Whether our paths are written for us or we choose them ourselves, we are all trying our best. Speaking of best, let’s not wait until the new year to try to be the best version of ourselves. Let’s start right now. I challenge you to walk for 20 minutes three times a week. If you already do, good for you! Perhaps, consider adding an extra five minutes. You can even pace around your house to make it count. See? Simple! 

A couple of more things I will challenge you to do: look in the mirror and say one thing nice to yourself. It doesn’t matter what it is, but it has to be nice and it must come from your heart. Last, but certainly not least, smile at someone today. No need to say a word. Simply, smile. Yes, it can be at yourself. These things may sound silly, but I have learned that it is the little things we do in our lives that can make the biggest difference. It can turn a gray day into a sunny one, a tear into a sigh of relief, and struggle into support.

Simple and kind things feed our souls. It makes us feel accomplished and complete. Remember, every sunrise is a new beginning. A new day, a new opportunity to practice having the life we truly want. No more excuses – they only become habit. Make happiness your new habit.

I’m too old. I’m too tired. I’m too busy. I should have traveled. I regret what I said… I can go on and on. The fact of the matter is, life only gets easier with practice, you’ll never have time unless you make time, and you’ll stop feeling so tired when you do good things for yourself. Regardless of what you want to do or who you want to be, it is never too late.

(Originally published in the October 31, 2019, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)