~~I think midlife is when the universe gently places her hands upon your shoulders...and whispers in your ear : "I'm not screwing around. It's time. All of this pretending and performing--these coping mechanisms that you've developed to protect yourself from feeling inadequate and getting hurt--has to go. Time is growing short. There are unexplored adventures ahead of you. You can't live the rest of your life worried about what other people think. You were born worthy of love and belonging. Courage and daring are coursing through you. You were made to live and love with your whole heart. It's time to show up and be seen." ~~ Brene Brown
Smoking used to be my way of coping with mean people. When my feelings were hurt, I smoked. Of course, I smoked when I was also happy, angry, confused, stressed, anxious.....addiction will give you a million reasons to feed it.
So when I quit smoking, I knew it was also time to deal with any and every upcoming incident of mean people and sad situations and uncomfortable feelings and stress.
And so I did.
I learned that how people treat me is a reflection of who they are, not of who I am. I learned that even if I fumble through an uncomfortable situation, I'll get through it. I learned that those who love me will love me no matter how bad my mistakes are. I learned that silence is good. I learned to forgive myself for my faults and flaws. I learned that life is simply life and I get to decide whether mine is good or bad.
And I learned that I have unexplored adventures awaiting me. So I face each day with anticipation and eagerness, secure in the knowledge that I belong. I'm here for a reason, as is everyone on earth or we wouldn't be here at all. So I will discover my purpose, conquer my fears, and enjoy myself. Without worrying about what others think of me. Without the crutch of addiction to ease my pain or fear. Without wondering if I can get through it.
Maybe it's time for you, as well. Maybe it's time to seek out your unexplored adventures. Maybe it's time to be daring. Maybe it's time for you to show up and be seen. The universe is waiting 
