Excuse Me; Respectfully this is for "You"
This hits close to home because it reminds me of the "same conversations", the same cycle with those very close to me, who never seem to understand "what really matters". The same issues, the same conversations, it really is a Merry-Go-Round. No matter how many ways you say it, share it, listen to it, like a butterfly, whatever is shared, it is captured for a brief moment, and then flies away, and then the cycle begins again. No, I'm not an expert, and No I have "not mastered" this but what I have done is "exercise daily" and that has allowed my muscles to become stronger; Spiritually, Mentally, Physically and including holding the reigns on my emotions. It does not mean moments don't challenge my journey, it means my muscle is stronger and my Reflex overrides my emotions of nonsense "most times" I will continue to allow the Merry-Go-Round cycle, because I do care, I do love those who are close to me, and maybe it is just venting to a trusted source and from my end, it will not be judged, it will not be retained. A listening ear allows a release to the one sharing. Including, who knows where a "trusted ear" for me, will be needed for the road ahead. I'm not naïve, I recognize that Words are easier said, than taking actions but that is Why I, Why others should consider "exercising" the Peace within. Exercising "daily" on what "really matters". NO ONE SAID EASY, it is a choice, it is an exercise. What can I do with this Merry-Go-Round Cycle?!, I can take it and share it, knowing that a Heart will hear it, and do something with it. I know that in this process it will be shared, and those seeds will continue to Grow. That is truly a blessing. That is taking something and doing something with it "that matters", at least for this heart, I Am Grateful. Excuse Me; Respectfully this is for "You" Why the same questions?!, and Why the same cycle?!, when most who ask already know the answer. Respectfully, change is not an easy road, "for most of us" and truthfully the option in some cases, is not really available, it is the moments that are overwhelming and God Knows what is really needed, including "who" is a "trusted ear" that will not pass judgment, or look for an opportunity to blast someone else business, that may be just enough, but at some point does anyone recognize, as a new book opens, it will also will surely close. That is what allows for "some" to exercise Gratitude Daily. Respectfully, these words, this image "for some" will be enough to allow reflection, will be enough to begin the work, a moment for change, for the work to make a change. These words will penetrate reflection and the work will begin with a local church, or "trusted" professional Help. It will begin a Change, "for some". Excuse Me; Respectfully this is for "You" For some, the roots are much deeper, and if that is "you" there is no shame in that. Please, get the help you need, not later, not tomorrow. Now... Hopeline: 1-800-442-4673 A confidential conversation is always a great start, and including local recommended resources will keep "you" moving forward. Please do what is "best" for YOU. This is not about They, or what someone else would do. Respectfully, this is shared for "You" Excuse Me; Again, Respectfully this is for "You" How Long do "YOU" choose to carry the weights?! Hugs, Yvette "Donyale"
God Knows the Heart. God Knows when no one else gets it. Respectfully, you did not pass by, stop by or connect "by chance". Yes this was written and shared just for "YOU"
#MakingGratitudeContagious is always the intent
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The In-Between
Words that in my heart speaks volumes. When my life changed “in an instant” on September 7, 2016, it included a grieving, healing process, and a moment that tattooed my heart forever. A tattoo can be a beautiful thing because it travels with you. A tattoo reminds you of what was beautiful and at the same time what really matters for the day, and the road ahead. It allows “for some” to locate the beauty of each day. Present-day, my perspective, my view has changed or a better word has been “added to”, to carry along, to carry forward. Change is a part of life’s journey, it is not once changed, or shifted, it is a constant change. I choose to receive those things that can be an asset for the road ahead and for those who surround my life. Those I know and those I encounter along the way… What is Precious, What is Priceless, and What really matters “daily”? For those who don’t know the story of “Living In My Truth” and care to know. Simply visit the village. My story is not required, I respectfully recognize that we each have our own story but when someone shares, “in my opinion” it is important to know the intent of why they do what they do. Again just me, I offer the open door to know “the why” Knowing someone’s Why allows insight on Why they do what they do and if it fits your own vibe.
The In-Between
Having many conversations, you quickly realize how we “all” can so easily get lost in things that really don’t matter, or hold enough weight to rob us of our peace, to rob us of a new day that is a gift. For some, we recognize that someone was not afforded that gift “this day” No one hits the mark every time, that includes me, I can easily get distracted and centered on nonsense. It is easy to get distracted by things that don’t really matter, that bring stress and overbearing thoughts of nonsense. The In-Between Consider… How easy it is to go round and round on all the “decisions” that have been made, that is existing in yesterday. No matter the super-hero of the Heart decisions that no one can ever change. The In-Between Consider… Tomorrow, filled with uncertainties, concerns, cares, and anxiety on the known and unknown. The things shared and personally kept near are in “Tomorrow” and what can we do with it today?! Again robs us of the gift called “this day” Now, words are not magic, to know something, to share something doesn’t make it easy. That is Why knowing “our why”, and knowing “our intent” allows us to make choices that serve us healthy within this new day. The In-Between Exercise Exercise Exercising daily in any activity becomes a Reflex. My current exercise is a calm spirit. For me that means taking hold of what matters, taking a pause “when not if” things challenge my day. Challenge of Thoughts, Concerns, and real issues that show their face. From the Calmness allows me to “lookout” at them and not allow them to encompass me, choke me, become a weight. Each new day I ask my Creator... What can I do with This or That?! Or I release My Anxiety, my Cares I Seek Wisdom for all that surrounds me because this road is bigger than me The In-Between I’ve traveled enough miles to know how “days” can be robbed stuck in yesterday, and or worried about Tomorrow. In the scheme of things, I Do Not Control either. So I Exercise I Do What I Can Do “this day” I include “Devotion” in my Day because I Know My Why And I’ve decided to “Embrace, Be Grateful” for This Day Because I Know My Why And I’m Respectful of the Those Who No Longer Have that Choice
The In-Between
This village brings Fulfillment to my Heart but I’m not obligated or sponsored by anyone. I share that because there really is no agenda, there is a Flow Out from the Heart, that returns Flows In and Blesses Me Until Next Time, continue to write great write pages with the gift afforded you of a “new day” Hugs, Donyale For those who want more… Book: Live Heart Inspired Vlog: “In An Instant” 
Was, Is and Always Will Be The Intent
Take a photo?!
Have you ever considered when taking a photo that we are capturing a moment, one that will hold memories for a lifetime and can never be recreated again. That in my opinion makes it valuable. It is priceless. When I was younger, their always seemed to be "that one or few", always with the camera, requesting for everyone to come together to take a photo, and I use to make it my business to run away if possible, thinking I don't want to be in any photos My view is quite different today.
Take a photo?!
My view is quite different today, I will gather, I will get in the photo and some are not the greatest looking photos especially when others post them everywhere. However, It is what it is and I'm grateful to those who understood the value of "taking photos", "capturing memories". I did my share of taking them also, I just chose to not be in the photo or video. Which again, I love to do now. Now it doesn't matter, anytime, anywhere. You want to sing a song? Hey lets sing. You want to do a dance routine? Lets do it. The point is when you live with awareness that we possess a precious gift call now, "this day" and recognize that "no one promised us that tomorrow will look the same" It changes our Focus, for some the perspective is to allow the day to start and end with what really matters.
Take a photo?!
We all have the have to and obligations but they don't have to possess us. For most, we do all we can and to maintain peace within we have to let go, table those things we have no control over. This is never about being easy, this exercise is daily, and it is about choosing our Focus. Our Focus always determine our view. 
If you enjoy the feed, this village, check out the book: Live Heart Inspired
An Inspirational Journal dedicated to responding back to what changed my life "In An Instant" Hugs, Donyale
Not Just a Destination
Daily We Exercise in Making Decisions We Can't Control What Happens Along Life's Journey But We Can Decide on "How To Respond To It"
We Are Running To?!
Pursuit is good but Don't Run So Fast That You Lose Sight of Today 
is always the Intent
The word on my heart this past weekend was “Change” and the flow is that it really isn’t about good or bad changes, it is about life changes. It is a part of life’s journey, we all started as babies and we continue through seasons of life, a change. We viewed and we view the day from the eyes, from the season that we were in and including currently reside in.
The Word “Change” The Word Change, just the word alone takes our thoughts in many directions. I’m in the midst of a change and really when you consider life’s journey there is always something changing. That is why for me, it is not just about the next destination, it is about the choices presented to us within a day, the choice of what we say, what we do and how we choose to respond.
When we live aware of our choices, as we go forward, we can look back at how all those days connected and if a diligent effort is made in the area of gratitude "daily". For some it will include, when in review how exercising "Gratitude Robs Regret"
Gratitude allows us to embrace change, not centered on “easy or not”, but instead what can we do with it, celebrate, locate the beautiful in it, take it and “make it an asset”. Change, address those areas that we can, and to not carry areas that are beyond our control. The Word “Change” Exercising, building on Peace Within, allows the calmness in the midst of. Calmness allows us to locate options and to make decisions accordingly. This can work in so many ways, consider someone who comes to you and is weighted about a situation, not necessarily looking for answers, just overwhelmed, sad in the “moment”. Your disposition of an encouraging word, an upside in looking at the situation, or even a smile or just a listening ear can allow someone else to consider that situation differently.
The Word “Change”
Change has many ways to be looked at. I no longer consider easy or not, my Focus is doing what I can, resting and receiving peace while in the midst of my options, if any or not. My heart chooses making the best of the day I reside in, did I mention the discussion is not about easy. It is about a choice. Living, understanding and recognizing “change” is a part of our lives and when you live the best of every stage, every day, it really takes on a new meaning of what change can mean?! The Word “Change” I don’t share answers, I share a perspective from my experiences, my belief and the lessons from the road traveled and living intentionally for the day that I'm blessed to have. My exercise is accepting Change in whatever season I find myself in. Again and again, my focus is not about "easy or not easy". I can only do what I can do. Let's consider to take what can be an asset and continue forward. All the best, until next time. Hugs, Yvette “Donyale” 
What was meant to destroy not just our lives but for "generations"
When Life Changes "In An Instant" You, I, We always have a choice on what to do with it My Decision Was, Is and for the remainder of this journey Has been Been Decided Fulfillment has been located in knowing that my experience can be shared and God will decide where it will land which "for me" is His Business This work, this journey is no longer just me or my home But Now For Every Heart who found found there way here Long Term, Short Term or just for a Moment Take what can be an asset and Continue Forward Some will tend the garden Some will water it Some will take a moment to Rest and Regroup before continuing forward #MakingGratitudeContagious is always the intent 
Have you figured out?!
Have you figured out, who this journey belongs to?! Freedom "for me" is when "you" know your why. My journey, my life was liberated when I figured out that I travel with many, but I will always be accountable to one. So many voices, so many opinions, so many of "they say", but liberation found me, asking. . .what do I say?! This includes as a Woman of Faith, for me, that means seeking, walking, asking, having a relationship with my Creator, not just based on a religion, not just based on rules and regulations of that religion, but my journey based on a "relationship" with God. After all, my chapter will end on the way it started "just me" and with that, I Live "daily" on what I'm willing to die on, which includes my daily words spoken, my choices, my daily actions.
Have you figured out?!
My name is Yvette "Donyale" to know more, to learn more, simply visit where it started on "About". If you know nothing else about me, or about "Helping Build Bridges Across" please depart with this. . . I do not share Answers, I share a Perspective from the road traveled "to date" of this post, from my experiences, from my "chosen belief", my view. I share, and my invitation is that you can Watch, you can Listen, you can Read, and "you decide" what can be an asset to your journey and continue forward. > > Buffet Table "you" can choose.
Have you figured out?!
This post is shared from an observation of so many who want to "fit in" and it is adopted in the heart of one who allows the views of others to decide, overriding what may not "feel comfortable", it appears to be decided by "living" measured by the ruler of others. Have you ever considered, We are all traveling a journey figuring things out, making decisions, and of course we receive an overflow of information, of voices, and of opinions. In closing. . . Have you figured out?! Who the journey belongs to, we all receive information, and then We, You, and I have to decide what the decision will be not for a lifetime, for the Day, for the Moment, for the decision that needs to be made in that moment. We all grow, and where we start, will change as we travel forward, this share is to Take Time, Take a Pause to decide in this Chapter, this Season of the journey what is best for "you". 
Have you figured out?!
Thank you for being here, for sharing this journey here at Helping Build Bridges Across We may not share the "same" in many areas but our core is Gratitude, because Friend from a Heart that Knows, "Gratitude Always Robs Regret"
Have you figured out?!
Get in where your heart fits in. This is an Open Door Community. Not sharing answers, sharing a Perspective, filled with Images and Words, only for "you" to consider for this day and the road before us. Hugs, Yvette "Donyale" 
#MakingGratitudeContagious is always the intent
Do Not Invest so much into the words from others, from the opinion of others, so much that you lose your Focus, you lose your Joy, and or lose your Peace. Not one of us know "the heart" of someone else and some only know how to hurt others by words and actions based on there own pain within, there own insecurity. There are situations, that you can't just walk away. For some, they live with the Pain, they work with the Pain, they encounter the Pain along the journey. Do Not Invest so much The work is your heart, your mind, your peace. Yes, work. You and I can't control anyone else. Our control is what we do with the insensitivity, the nonsense, the anger delivered our way. For some, it is easy, to draw a line and end those situations. For some, not so easy, so much is obligated to this source of no discretion. You can't just make the change in an instant, so much more is involved. How powerful it is to know your source of Peace, and to live daily in deciding what is allowed in your Heart Gate. Only we can decide what we allow within, only we can decide how to respond. The work in this village, Helping Build Bridges Across, is to remind you that "No One Said Easy", we are not exercising, building on EASY. Our work is daily exercise, in the decisions we "choose" to make, our "response" we choose to deliver, and our "participation' in accepting invitations to Drama. Do Not Invest so much Do you recognize how powerful that word "participation" is. The source that delivers confusion, drama, just venom, consider it requires participation in the "invitation" of that, for some it has been a dance, a rehearsal of the same script. Only you can decide "no", I will not participate in the pain of someone else, it is there work to do. The same as it is for us, we should not be delivering our moments of hurt, pain on to someone else. We have to do the work, we have to confront the ground that needs to be worked on. 
Do Not Invest so much
The journey of "Peace" doesn't require speeches, or declarations, it is operating in what we can control, our heart, our mind. My Faith has taught me the power of my journey, my heart, my fulfillment, and that is not measured by anyone else. I have forgiven many things, and the greatest freedom, is it no longer a Focus, it is no longer a Distraction, it is not my center, my thoughts and my time is no longer invested in those areas, I can't control and "what has been released".
Be sure to connect to our Village News, together we are exercising our Peace muscles, our Gratitude muscles and we share the power of that. #PlantingSeedsofGratitude
"Whatever we plant, always has the potential to grow" 
"The Why" can fall into so many categories...
The Journey online began with just sharing encouragement, which has always encouraged me, a win-win. For the record, this is not an obligation, not an agenda, just an area of joy to share words and images that allow us to pause and consider, from day one, to appreciate the gift of life. **The "About" page and first words posted, April 2014, was when this road map began online, and shares a view of the beginning along this roadmap. Who knew at the time where the road would lead...
When my life, my home, changed "instantly", a tragic unimaginable moment with details that seem like yesterday. When my husband, a father to our two sons was murdered, it was a moment that takes your breath away. In a Fog, not clear of the next steps, but walking through with my Creator, He provided so much more, that there is no way to share the gravity, in a blog.
Grateful for God's Grace, for my sons and I, shared more on the Podcast: "Why An Eagle?!" My journey had come to a crossroad "in an instant", and what was before me, in that moment was my Faith, in that moment it was in question, "What now, what is your Faith now? My blueprint, my plans ripped up in an instant, did I mention "In an Instant" As often shared in the village, I had a choice, to remain angry, to continue the road weighted, as a victim. A personal choice, to decide if I would reside, In a space that no matter, what I chose would not change what had happened to our home. A period of Healing, a period of Trusting and Questioning God, a God who I know and had walked with prior to this moment in my journey, a God I personally know has no darkness in Him (1 John 1:4-5) but, still within a painful place, left to wrestle with Why?!, Left with Pain, and left with, What Now?! For me, it was an opportunity to punch back at the evil that came on my doorstep. A praying woman, who knew that the journey would include continuing to pray through for my sons, for my direction and as time went on, making a choice to do something with it, no longer just about my home, but now about every Heart that was in the midst of "Why" and including, those whose Journey may across an unimaginable crossroad. This became the Work, the fulfillment to my heart, and the seeds that would be planted...
The Why...
The rearview mirror, always allows a view of the road behind of where you've traveled, and present day perspective, the journey. Continuous reflection, my Creator, God walked us through with a Peace that can't be explained, which included Tears in the midst of celebrations. Present day, a continued Faith, a Hope that continues beyond a grave, and continued Trust in a Living God.
We may not share the same Faith, or have the same experience or perspective, but here, this village, Helping Build Bridges Across, was created to Share the Unfamiliar Journey together, to share the Smiles, the Joy, to Share a Perspective without providing Answers. A place to remind "us" to Take a Pause and Consider, what really matters to us "daily". To appreciate the lives that surround us "today"
Simply, a place, a village that is empowered by "Love" and that allows us to Share, to Listen to each other without being offended, when and if we don't agree.
Not Answers, Sharing a Perspective
The work is continuous, the intent was, is and always will be the same. My punch back to the pain that tried to destroy our home, my sons and generations is the continued work of what fulfills my Heart. Sharing Encouragement, Empowering Words and Images to build on Peace within, all of which encourages and empowers my Journey. #IAmGrateful
#MakingGratitudeContagious
"No One Said Easy"
The Focus is clear When you recognize "No One Promised Us Tomorrow Will Look the Same as Today"
Words are not Magic
Those very words can be applied to so many situations, words are key and important, they build, they allow us to reflect, they assist us in our focus but they are "aided" by, empowered by exercising in what we read, exercising what we speak, and exercising in what we believe. Words are Not Magic Consider, if you're in the season of wanting to lose weight, or get toned, or to build muscle, Buying the gym membership, or the exercise equipment, or the products for eating healthier, or the protein drinks, is not going to achieve those things, it is in the "exercise" of using the equipment, going to the gym, making daily decisions of what we choose to eat that decides. We have the words, we know the system, but we have to "exercise" in it. Words are Not Magic As a woman of Faith, I know the Word, I study, I read books, I attend my local service, have had years behind me of church homes and community faith groups. It is not just in listening, or just reading scriptures, it is in the Exercise of my Faith that determines my view. The experiences behind that I had to walk through by Faith, that allowed me the Trust in God for current day and for the road ahead, again, not just the Words, but by the exercise of my Faith, that allows me to know and to continue to trust God. Words are Not Magic Gratitude, affirmations, being kind, that is a great focus, a personal favorite, but to read Positive Words, Quotes, to listen to motivational inspiring speakers is not enough. Gratitude is more than a word, it is an action, that builds from the daily choices we make, "exercising" why are you grateful for a new day, and making choices from that Why. Making choices to bring smiles to others. Making choices to not attend "drama" or "confusion". It is an Exercise. Words are Not Magic Peace within, to say it, to be aware of it, doesn't make it so. It is "choosing", making choices on what will be allowed to come within. It is making choices on those who surround our life, our inner circle. Peace within a valuable asset, and to know about it, is not enough, it is a decision on building on that Peace within, understanding the value of it. Peace allows calmness in the midst of most things, the calmness is important, it is the space that allows to us hear, to locate options needed for challenges that may be surrounding us, or decisions that need that may effect the road before us. Words are Not Magic Not providing answers, sharing a perspective. Making choices to use my experiences of personal pain along my journey, and doing something with it. Encouraging others which encourages me, being in service to others, is my heart's fulfillment. Not obligated to do this, a choice. No One Said Easy, and now that we know, we "choose" to exercise and continue forward.
#MakingGratitudeContagious is always the intent
When This. . .Than That
Often, I consider the image of a hourglass, sand slowing drifting from the top into the bottom glass. In reflection, like time, no matter what you or I decide to do with it, the sand continues to drift, time continues "no matter" how we choose to use it. With that, for me it puts in perspective what really makes sense on a daily basis, which includes for me, to decide to grab the reigns that matter to my heart, to be "grateful" for all areas afforded within a new day. If that thought could continue to dance with us, it would allow us to "be aware" on how we decide to spend our time. It would allow us to walk with that knowing of "no one promised us, that tomorrow will look the same as today". Those thoughts allow us to live with a "Pause" before we speak. A pause that allows us to consider the intent behind our response or the words that we choose to speak. A pause allows the decision in some situations, of "peaceful silence" without ever speaking a word. We would let go of hours spent on "what others" should do or should not do, and we would live more in starting our focus on our daily journey, we would allow our lives to represent living in "not taking one day" for granted. We would not allow the voices of others to set the bar, of what our heart whispers is possible, and if nothing more than just "trying" that alone would allow gratification. Not One Day for granted. . . Not one day wasted on trying to wait on every block to be in the perfect spot, having a blueprint drawn that truthfully when you've walked enough miles, you recognize, how much control you or I truly have. Living daily with an intent of what really matters in our life, and what is priceless. When This. . .Than That Words to consider, not sharing answers, sharing a perspective. Making a choice to take my experiences of personal pain and doing something with it. Not allowing it to defined me but instead to be in service to others, recognizing what I'm able to share. #WhenYouKnowYourWhy #PlantingSeedsofGratitude #HelpingBuildBridgesAcross #FromaHearthatKnows #GratitudeRobsRegret 
Who is your Pack?!
Who our lives are surrounded by matters. Your Pack, references your inner circle, those who have traveled along the journey with you unconditionally. It is not attached to personal interests, or personal pursuits, or contacts, or connections. Your Pack is those who are with you when life gets ugly, when you have pages that take your breath away and some pages that you knock you down to the mat. Your Pack are those who celebrate with you, not envious of your "mountain" moments, but truly are rooting for you, and they are there with you, hoping along with you, to go as high as you strive to climb. Your Pack. . .Who is Your Pack?! That matters, because those whom are closest to us speak into our lives, they share words that can be empowering, they share words that can also irritate, can frustrate you, all while being wrapped in love. But through it all, you know the Intent, You Know they are giving from the Heart and they are prepared to go the distance. Your pack "has shown" when it was not great moments, they were there. A brief pause to share, I pray we add the same value to our pack, to those who are precious to us, it should be a dance along life's journey. It should reflect the love and show support "both ways". Packs consist of Family, and Dear Friends and together pursue the distance and love on each other along the way. The Pack shares in tears, in fearful moments, the challenges of each other and celebrating the Moments of Life's Journey. A blessing for some, to have a Pack that prays for each other and recognizes that our Life's Journey is so much more than a mirror, not predicated only on ourselves. Choosing to not live intentionally selfish. Who is Your Pack?! It may be you don't have those, or even a few, and if not, than find the villages, the places and spaces that send out love and have an unconditional open door. The same as this village, Helping Build Bridges Across, has an open door. The intent is to travel together, sharing, living experiences that can be an asset, that can be a reminder of why Making Gratitude Contagious is Priceless. Your Pack can consist of a Few, in my case, it consists of Family, Dear Friends and Including this village of HBBA, and I don't take that for priceless, treasure for granted. We are not limited to the many Packs we have, together, we remind each other "What Really Matters", and what is most precious in our lives "right now" Hugs, Donyale For those who want more, be sure to connect to our Newsletter, it allows more ways to be connected and together sharing in exercising peace within and planting seeds of gratitude. and Sample Platter, in case you are not aware of the buffet table, this allows you to experience a sampling of the work this heart is blessed to do. #Fulfillment Until next time. . .Continued Best  Who is in the Driver's Seat? What emotion has the keys and is driving, doesn't ask, again not asking but is driving. What emotion has the keys? and is deciding the direction. The driver always decides the direction, will it be to continue forward, or to park, or maybe the vehicle has a cover over it, and or maybe even decides to turn around and return to the road behind. Who is in the Driver's Seat? Sharing Gratitude, exercising Gratitude, choosing to locate beautiful in what surrounds our life daily, meditation, daily affirmations, and favorite scriptures spoken daily, is not "magic" it is exercising in it. It is boldly "choosing" the emotion that will be allowed to drive, that will be allowed to have the keys. Who is in the Driver's Seat? There are "weighted days", days that try to rob you of joy, and want to steal your attention to all the "wrong" in your life, all the missing pieces, all those who have done you wrong. Thoughts that dance with you whispering if only you had done this or done that. Thoughts sometimes spoken out loud even through familiar trusted faces. Distractions. Who is in the Driver's Seat? Exercising Gratitude does not just remove those not so great emotions, those challenges. The exercise is a great word in my opinion because for me it is "exercising" and "exercising symbolizes "work", "exercising" symbolizes a discipline, it symbolizes especially on those days where you don't want to exercise, a choice, you choose in the midst of those emotions, those thoughts, who the driver will be. You decide the page that you "intend to write" Intend because we don't control "most" things but we can decide how to react to those places that are not so pretty, are not so great, are triggers that we have to choose not to dance with. Always a Choice and for those who know our village, No One Said or is Looking for Easy, it is a Choice, it is intentional living. Who is in the Driver's Seat? Please know, I don't share answers, I share a perspective of what has allowed me to walk in Peace and Calmness more days than not. I choose not to dance with drama, it's "a choice" for me built from my foundation of faith, from firsthand experience, my truth. It does not mean that I don't receive "invitations" for confusion, or drama. It means, I have the keys and I choose to decide what will have "my focus" I choose the invitations that I will accept and or decline. I choose who has the keys, and what emotion "will be allowed" to drive. Who is in the Driver's Seat? In closing, like a sponge we choose what to soak up our lives with, all the conversations that surround us, the noise, the focus is the those conversations that we choose to engage in, and that we choose to allow to surround us, we choose what we want to entertain. Always a choice Who is in the Driver's Seat? Along this journey that we travel, we are exercising, we are planting seeds of gratitude, we are intentionally living, and we know that what we plant has the potential to grow for "generations". Helping Build Bridges Across building from our Generation to the Next Making Gratitude Contagious is always the Intent
We May Travel in the Same Direction
But The How To The Experience Will Become Our Own Our View Of the Road Ahead May Look Very Different ~ HS
Making Gratitude Contagious is always the Intent
That Sprout
Grows for Generations
For Generations. . .
Precious Words to Consider for Many areas in our Life The Words that determine Our Words and Our Actions Welcome to the Journey HBBA, the road continues. . . Beautiful as an Artist allows the Heart to be Shared without being a pattern, a template or locked in a box ~HS Enjoy ~ "If Only Our Eyes Could See. .  Who has the Time to exercise Gratitude?! My question would be quite different...Who can afford to not exercise in Gratitude?! Donyale, we have the shirt, a button, a mug, and yes we know Gratitude is the Attitude, what does it really matter?! Everyone is always talking about being kind, or embracing moments blah, blah, and blah.  It Matters. . .From a Heart that Knows Firsthand it Matters. Exercising in this allowed me to "Rob" Regret in many areas. I'm Grateful. I learned the lesson, and it has been priceless "That No One Promised Us that Tomorrow Will Look the Same as Today" What a difference that "statement" made in my life and continues throughout my journey, it determines my conversation, my response, my actions, making the most of this day, being a presence that brings peace and in return always receives it. I'm Grateful to have Learned that Lesson. Again "No One Promised Tomorrow Will Look the Same as Today" I would even debate that Exercising Gratitude, is a vital part to not being trapped or set up for Regret. By Trapped or Set Up, I'm referencing to; In a Box (a stagnate place) confined with just thoughts of. . . If only I would have, or I should have, and or if I had a second chance it would be different. Those thoughts alone can be very overwhelming, providing enough weight that you can literally go into a mode of "stagnation" **Note: If you fall in these categories already mentioned, then before we continue further down this road; Lets deal with the issue up front, the issue of those locked in Regret, who dance with the thoughts just mentioned; Lets Confront It that You, I, We can't change what's happened, we can't rewrite any pages, and I mean "not one" page, not one paragraph, and not one sentence. What is done is done. Take a Stand and continue forward understanding and confronting that, if you are someone who needs more than being served by this Buffet Table, served along this Helping Build Bridges Across Journey, and you recognize professional help is needed, to get through it, then do it, don't quiver on it, don't hesitate, don't wrestle another day with it, life is to short to be robbed of precious days, to be robbed of priceless, precious opportunities that a New Day Offers. The words shared here are meant to be an asset, a buffet table set up to take what can be an asset along your journey, and leave the rest behind. Whenever I'm sharing on this topic or in this area, it is important that you know there is help, 24 hours / 7 days a week; a Lifeline: **If you are battling thoughts that you can't work through alone, or your are in a situation that requires resources or additional help : Please Call; # 1-800-273-8255 **If not now, lock it in your phone and call if you need the Help. Please know, I don't presume one way is the only way, I don't assume my way is the way, my intent is to share the power of what has bought my life unmeasurable peace and the impact it can offer and have on your perspective. Gratitude is so much more than a word it's an action, an action that will allow "you", which allowed me and continues to serve my journey, and it will extend to anyone who is willing to exercise in it, it will allow YOU to Rob Regret. It will allow the opportunity to measure the cost of the words and the actions that YOU choose to use along the journey. We live in "this day", and in "this moment" exercising Gratitude because for some we Know that "No Promised Us Tomorrow will look the Same as Today". Most Humbled Hearts come through painful places, and it humbles you, it allows you to recognize that the journey is so much more than just about you, about me, about us. It is a gift to be able to share an experience that allowed you to walk through challenging places, which for me includes God First, whose Grace walked with me and guided me and remains continuously with me along the way of each and every new Day. I'm Grateful. With that last statement alone. . . "A Humble Heart who knows Firsthand the Power of Exercising Gratitude" It is what allows our Perspective, our Focus, it is what determines What We Say, What We Do and includes What we will not do, because we live Now, and We Do Not Allow Anything to Rob Us of That. Exercising Gratitude overrides "triggers" that in the past would have created more drama, or responses that created a bigger divide, but now Gratitude allows an opportunity to Pause, to Decide what really is worth extending my Energy. Exercising Gratitude allows a Peaceful Silence, without the need to provide choice words, or the need to have the last word. A Powerful Exercise daily, that without notice becomes a reliable reflex. Who Has Time to Exercise Gratitude? To be Kind?  My question would be quite different...Who can afford to not exercise in Gratitude?! Hugs, Donyale 
Do these sound familiar?, recently I had to update some information and the funny part, it "allowed" options with a "one word" choice, and I went through the list and I considered I dabble in many areas, including this location, this village, our "Community" this place is an door opened to many. . . How do you Title it? How you you settle on One Word? ARTIST  Artist, just seemed to fit, it made sense to me. Before settling on the word, I decided to locate the definition, which is as follows; Artist (definition) one of many that seem to fit: One who practices at various creative arts The words that I love "practices at various" How fitting, it lives outside of a box, it moves beyond the walls of a 'one' title journey, it breathes allowing room to embrace what a New Day Offers while allowing the Journey, the Road Ahead to evolve, to offer New Roads New Paths and New Adventures Artist: One who practices at various creative arts My Definition Add-On: An Artist, one who doesn't live inside a Box, One Who chooses to be Open to the Beautiful that Surrounds their Life, Not just in the Hope for Tomorrow, but for the Gift of what surrounds Today.
An Artist can be surrounded by broken pieces, and the Heart Whispers what can be created with those pieces. It begins with the View, what can be seen, what can be possible. The process is not one way, it is Beautiful because the Flow is through the eyes, the heart of an individual Artist. For me, I share the creation by God's Grace, Wisdom of what can be created from broken pieces, I share the work, the exercise of what I exercise, of what I'm working through and in reflect on, I like you, travel the journey. Thank you for traveling this journey with me, and together Planting Seeds of Gratitude, for traveling together creating with the broken pieces around us, not focused on them being broken but Instead on What Can be Created? What can Grow from the Seeds we Plant? We all have Stories behind a Smile, but remember, it's not just what happened, it is what can we do with that matters As an Artist, "what we can do" will uniquely be our own to decide. Hugs, Donyale #MakingGratitudeContagious is always the intent
I'm Offended. . .Is it Just Me?!
I recognize we are not the same, we have different experiences, environments, beliefs and pursuits. Is it only me?! What travels with me "daily" is just how precious Life is, how fragile and how priceless a new day is. I always recognize "each new day" someone is not afforded the same. Is it Just Me?! The more I reflect, listen, and observe, it amazes me how many walk on eggshells accommodating the sensitivity of others and no matter the effort invested, those folks still find ways to be offended. I'm offended. . . Is it Just Me?! Is it Just Me?! Why is it so challenging "with some" to just have a conversation, to share that an action or words may have been hurtful, A conversation allows an opportunity to find out if a moment was misunderstood Why is the road so much easier to Be Offended?! Is it Just Me?! I've come to the conclusion as I observe, as I listen that for some maybe the way out, is to just distance themselves, to just choose to separate Yet when, not if, but when life changes and a chapter comes to an end These very people who created the most noise and or exercised being Offended Provide the greatest display of emotions and Often find themselves "trapped" in Regret I'm offended. . .Is it Just Me?! We all have a choice on what that means or will mean "Offense" and For How Long One thing for sure "nothing" remains the Same and Change comes and only we can decide where we will be standing When "that" Time Arrives Is it Just Me?! 
#MakingGratitudeContagious is always the intent
You're Never Obligated. . .
I share what I use, believe in and appreciate. My invitation to you is to Get In Where You Fit and if that means Sharing, Commenting, Planting Seeds of Gratitude, all of it is appreciated. If you remember nothing else, consider what this village has been from "Day One" and will continue to be until the Chapter Closes. #MakingGratitudeContagious Hugs, Donyale 
Worried?! Such a loaded word. . .
Allow me to say, I don't share answers, I share a perspective that comes from my experience, my environment and beliefs. **Please Take, what can be an asset to your journey** We don't have to share the same view, have the same experiences, but we can respect each other enough, to listen, and to determine if there is something that can be an asset to our lives and continued journey.
The work is in the exercise, when I consider exercise, whatever area is before me; Spiritually, Mentally, and or Physically, it is the work, it is the Focus that determines "My View". I know firsthand that in "consistency" lies the power, the discipline includes "rising above" the moments of hesitation, and or procrastination. Not easy, again not easy, a discipline. To Know that, to Share that is great, but to do what is necessary, is "always a choice" Most of us know, those things we need to do, and we have "great" intention but like clockwork for some, the thoughts come with a list of distractions, and before you know it, that weekly, daily routine planned, becomes a "To Do". As a woman of Faith, my peace has been located in the "surrender", in casting my worries on God. The question I often consider, reflect on, how can I Trust God in One Area and Struggle with doubt in others?! The surrender allows the "decision" that If I'm willing to Die on my Faith, that should include Living on it. God has been and is faithful, and for me, He is a Big God, and why should I wrestle with weights that are to heavy to carry, so I intentionally "exercise" handing them over to Him. I exercise in casting those cares, an exercise, a work. My perspective, He is God and He can see over the Mountain, He knows the Road Ahead and He Knows my End from the beginning, so why should I rob myself of this precious gift called a New Day?! My exercise "now" includes giving those worries to Him. When, not if, but when worry knocks, when stress whispers, when fear provides thoughts of all the things that can go wrong or challenge my hope, my joy, and peace. When "what If this or what if that", comes banging on my door (my thoughts). I "exercise" taking a pause, getting still "choosing" not to wrestle with things that are so much bigger than me. I will do what I can and "choose" to leave the rest to God. I have a great exercise that really is a peace gift, no matter your beliefs or philosophy, when "thoughts" wake you in the night, or early morning, or anytime and all these things are coming at you, "sing a song" in your head, any song that you love or brings you comfort. The thoughts have no room to compete, they become silent because all we have in that moment is that Song. I encourage "YOU" to Try it, exercise in it and even in your light sleep, when thoughts try to weigh you down, the Song will eventually become a reflex when you exercise. Such a sweet, precious gift that will bring a smile of comfort. Trusting God, surrendering, casting cares, could be summarized by; I don't know HOW God Will, but I TRUST that He will and my exercise is to just surrender, to rest in that, not wrestle, not worry, but Trust. A work, a discipline and as shared "no one said easy". Why should my blood pressure go up and my nerves become rattled with things that "I cannot change?!" This is the exercise which "for me" covers all the areas, God is my center. Now Visualize, Circles, that represent the day, filled with choices, decisions that will come before you. Consider God, our creator as the center circle and than draw circles around that center circle that will require our attention, some known and some that will arise. Consider, the exercise of that center being our foundation for our decisions. Starting from our center, "Living Inside Out" at least for me, brings peace, allows me to pause and just appreciate Who Really Is In Control in my life, who is my Foundation. At Some Point. . . As a woman of Faith, God is my center, for me means I'm bringing all things around my Faith, doing all that I know to do, but "choosing" to Focus on Peace, "choosing" to live Inside Out. These are choices, and I know that I'm not obligated to do anything, I have the power of Choice. I choose Peace, so I continue to seek those things that build on that foundation, working from Peace. Did I say Easy? Did anyone say Easy? #NoOneSaidEasy I've considered based on the road traveled, that my personal focus is not about seeking or being focused on easy, the work is exercising to "Just Do", just do what I can and exercise leaving the rest to God. Choosing to Focus on what really matters for "this day", and for the road ahead. Choosing to Focus on those areas that bring more joy, that build upon more peace, and to decide that my life's journey is not a destination, it is in every decision that I have to make, it is found in Trusting my Creator, not in some areas, but all of them.
Worried? . . .the Work is in the Exercise
In this season of my life, the greatest joy, is in the many whom have connected and have joined "the work" of planting seeds of Gratitude along with Helping Build Bridges Across. Gratitude is so much than a word, it is an action.
The question often asked, How can I work a Garden of Gratitude with Helping Build Bridges Across? Simple, get in where you fit in, never obligated just do what's enjoyable for you. To review the affiliates and or referrals that send a percentage to HBBA, please visit "Planting Seeds of Gratitude" and or "Mailing Out Gratitude". "Moments before Memories" allows us to celebrate, as a community, special moments that are meaningful to you, to send you the "unexpected" joy from our village, our community. Be sure to connect! The work is allowing, our hearts to consider how precious this Gift called Life is and to respect that with a humble heart, that we make choices daily, we decide to express loving those around us by our words, and by our actions. Exercising Gratitude "daily", and including "Taking a Pause" when we are not in a good space, recognizing even "Peaceful Silence" can be a blessing in the lives who surround us. My prayer is that, flowers can grow out of ashes, for all the lives who have been and who currently challenged by difficult roads, and unexpected seasons. God's Grace was and is beyond sufficient, looking back He was with me every step of the way, walking and guiding me through a season that knocked me off of my feet, a wilderness of not sure where the road traveled would lead, "In an Instant" life changed. My focus, after walking through such a tragic season, with a heart tattooed for life, the question, the focus, what can I do with it?!, I refuse to live as a victim and this is the continued work. Allowing our hearts to know the "value" of time, to be awaken to not taking "moments" for granted. The work keeping us mindful and focused on "Who Promised that Tomorrow will look the same as Today?!" The work is, includes coming in contact with those we don't know, being respectful, even in places we don't agree, even in those spaces allowing the space to "Agree to Disagree" without offense. The work is meeting "Hearts" not Faces, not allowing the conditions of any moment, to allow the assumption or judging others based on the chapter, we walked in on for any person. We just don't know the Story of the Hearts we meet along our travels. 
~ Here at Helping Build Bridges Across ~
We are a community of many We all have Stories Behind our Smile We Continue to Plant Seeds of Gratitude We Continue Forward Along the Journey Through Tears and Through Laughter From a Heart that Knows Exercising Gratitude Always Robs Regret Not Just Mountains ~ Moments Hugs, Donyale 
This is something new?!
Life "delivers" change, rather you're prepared or not, and on board or not. Change Happens. "Nothing remains the same" is often quoted. Some don't embrace change well, and for some it can be very overwhelming. Yet, whatever the emotions, and the concerns attached, change doesn't come along and ask for your permission to visit.
This is something new?! As a woman of Faith and one who exercises Gratitude Daily, it has been the recipe that has allowed me to rob the "Thief Named Regret". My heart is to share with others some ways to Exercise Gratitude. The question often asked, "Donyale, how can I exercise Gratitude Daily, when some days are not so great?" First, before we continue allow me to state; I do not offer answers, I share a perspective. If only it was as easy as a few steps, or five ways to this, and 10 steps to follow, we would all gladly sign up to that blueprint. The truth, from my view, is that "No One Said Easy" so we may never master, but we continue to "exercise" Gratitude daily. "Not Just Mountains, but Moments is the Focus "the impact of embracing a new day, doing what we can do and not allowing worry about what tomorrow may hold, to steal from the gift of the life we have right now, this day. Embracing "No One Promised Us that Tomorrow will look the same as Today" that alone can allow for us to embrace "fully" what this day offers and becomes "an aid" in the words that we choose to deliver to others and in the actions we choose to take. This is something new?! The road behind offers us, an opportunity to consider the lessons from our experiences, if we are open to listening, to reflecting, and to consider who we were in those moments, what role did we play. Beautiful includes a heart with the intent to become better, to do better, to decide within what is "priceless and precious" this day and what can we carry forward for the road ahead. Beautiful is recognizing what is really important to us?! This is something new?! Gratitude Gratitude is a word that means so much more than "appreciation", Gratitude is an action, when exercising daily, it can become a reflex, and it flows into the lives of those around us, even our silence can offer Peace. This is something new?! When I consider the noise around me or the challenges that knock on my door, I found that Beautiful can be located wherever I place my Focus. Beautiful is when I begin my day focused on that I awaken to having a new day, a new page, the gift of life and loved ones who surround my life. That is a blessing. I reflect on all the things that are so easy to take for granted. I embrace and my heart is tattooed with precious moments and memories of love ones that shared a space, that shared a season along my journey, that alone travels with me daily, and for all of this, I AM GRATEFUL. This is something new?! Some like to close there day in reflection and some begin the day with reflection, "Exercising Gratitude is when you intentionally live recognizing what is important to you, important to your heart. It's so easy to get wrapped up by Noise, by Distractions, including those who can trigger negative emotions or thoughts by their words or actions. Life is short Life is precious Life is priceless Life is a gift that only "we" can decide individually on how to "spend" it. Those words hold so much truth at least for me, and they are really so much more than just words... We all hear slogans, popular quotes or words, but when you stop and consider the value, the truth behind them, reflecting on what they mean in your life, it puts many things in Perspective.
This is something new?!
In closing,
It's important to know our value, to maintain our peace, to change what we can and let of those things we can't change. Make a decision to live beyond "yourself", treasures are sometimes hidden and delivered to those who live beyond themselves, who choose to Plant Seeds of Gratitude in the lives of others while "Exercising Gratitude" in their own life.
~ THIS IS SOMETHING NEW ~
A New Day offers an opportunity to write a New Page. "Beautiful" is when you can locate Gratitude in the midst of... ~HS A New Day offers an opportunity to let go of yesterday, anything that is a weight, or a burden. Carry with you the lessons to travel alongside as you hope for many tomorrows. A New Day offers an opportunity "to decide" what you have "this day" and not be robbed of what you don't. No One Said Easy but we have to decide how to receive a "New Day". Life's journey offers each of us an opportunity to "decide" how to live each day and how to celebrate, cherish those who surround our life along the way. ~ Always a Choice ~ Not What They Say A Choice on how you choose to travel this journey "every single day" "Moments not just Mountains" "Making Gratitude Contagious" is always the intent Donyale, How Can I help "Plant Seeds of Gratitude? How can I support H.B.B.A. in doing the work?11/3/2020 These questions come up often and I'm Grateful. I'm a visual person and I love words and I thought I would put together a Video demonstrating and Answering those questions. Thank you for the support and for being here and connecting in the work of this garden. Whatever you're part it is appreciated, it's everyone who is connected doing a little and together we are all "Making Gratitude Contagious" Hugs, Donyale  |
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