This is a still life I made of some of my favorite things: succulents, dahlias, crystals, gemstones, lavender hearts, and seashells.
I wanted to share this photo with you to encourage you to surround yourself with some of your favorite things and to remind you that not a single one of us knows how long we have on this Earth so we better enjoy our favorites while we can.
I’m reminding you because I need reminding too.
I needed reminding during the last four years as I tolerated a low-grade fever of anxiety throughout Trump’s reign as the worst possible president in the history of the United States (mark my words, he will go down in history as that).
I needed reminding as I rode–and continue to ride–the ongoing tragic waves of the COVID-19 pandemic that has killed nearly 1.3 million people so far.
And I needed reminding when the election results were riding up and down like a evil rollercoaster, finally and thankfully resulting in Joe Biden and Kamala Harris becoming the next President and Vice-President of the United States.
Appreciating every day like it might be your last is hard to do when you’re busy living–and in many cases–just surviving.
But this year, that good advice finally sunk in. This year, despite how terrible and tragic it’s been, or because of it, I finally understand that I am responsible for taking the time to enjoy the things that bring me joy. No one else. Just me.
So, I’m taking time every day to enjoy some of my favorite things. Whether it’s gazing at dahlias, smelling Katsura trees, laughing with Marcus, using cute stickers in my journal, video-chatting with a friend, or reading for pleasure every night, I’m doing it. Every day, I’m enjoying my favorite things because I need them to make it through. We all do.
Peg Cheng is the author of Rebel Millionaire, a guide for how to retire as a millionaire even if you make a modest income. She is also the author of The Contenders, a middle-grade novel for kids aged 8 to 108; the creator of Fear & Writing, a workshop for procrastinating writers from all walks of life; a career adviser combining the practical with the metaphysical; and the host of a fun and compassionate journaling club.
Yes! Made a list tonight of some of my favorite things. I felt reassured that I have made many of them a consistent part of my daily life. But I also ordered new sheets (love new high-quality sheets!) in a peaceful “pewter” color and am looking forward to luxuriating in them when they arrive!
That’s awesome, Elizabeth! I’m glad to hear that many of the favorite things on your list are already a consistent part of your daily life. Also love that you went ahead and ordered some new luxurious sheets for yourself. Yes! It’s so funny because I’ve also been wanting to order some new high-quality sheets. Your note today has given me the little push I needed to go ahead and do that. Thank you!