As we find ourselves in the middle of the year, I reflect on the last few months with a sense of gratitude. I realize as I look at old photographs of myself, that I am no longer that girl with self-doubt constantly hanging over her, nor am I that girl who thought self-assurance lay in other people’s perceptions of her character and appearance.

No, I am a woman who sees that I have space to grow within me. I hold self-doubt, insecurity, and unworthiness close and thank them for their teachings. Without the ability to see myself in the eyes of others, I might not be as empathetic to the world around me. Without fear of losing those I love because I feel “insufficient,” I would never learn who I need in my life. Without witnessing my darkest hours, I would not get the chance to appreciate the light.

As most of us know, life is not black and white. I cannot wake up one day and have all the negative aspects of my being and my life disappear. Instead, we learn to grow through the unsteadiness and find stability in the lessons we learn. I have gratitude for all that comes my way, be it comfortable or not. I find solitude in loneliness, acceptance in chaos, and courage in the unknown. Life has gifts for us if we choose to witness and accept them..

As it is the sixth month of the year, I wanted to write about six main focuses that I draw gratitude and joy. I hope you feel inspired to seek beauty in even the most frenzied moments of life.