I have been so inspired by the following from Isabel Allende, that I just had to share it with you:
"I have
lived with passion and in a hurry, trying to accomplish too many things. I
never had time to think about my beliefs until my 28-year-old daughter Paula
fell ill. She was in a coma for a year and I took care of her at home, until
she died in my arms. Paralyzed and silent in her bed, my daughter Paula taught
me a lesson that is now my mantra: You only have what you give…
The pain of
losing my child was a cleansing experience. I had to throw overboard all excess
baggage and keep only what is essential. Because of
Paula, I don't cling to anything anymore. Now I like to give much more than to
receive. I am happier when I love than when I am loved. I adore my husband, my
son, my grandchildren, my mother, my dog, and frankly I don't know if they even
like me. But who cares? Loving them is my joy.
Give, give,
give—what is the point of having experience, knowledge or talent if I don't
give it away? Of having stories if I don't tell them to others? Of having
wealth if I don't share it? I don't intend to be cremated with any of it! It is
in giving that I connect with others, with the world and with the divine. It is
in giving that I feel the spirit of my daughter inside me, like a soft
presence."
~Isabel Allende
