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Monday, September 12

For those who listen

I saw a quote the other day by Will Shakespeare that read "The Earth has music for those who listen." 
This inspired what I wanted to touch on today. My first post back after such a long silence here.
image via

I'm happy to say that in time that's passed since I posted that list of goals, my little family and I were able to do everything I wrote on that list, at least once:) One thing that I've been focusing a lot on however that was not on the list, is more listening. 
Listening to the silence, 
listening to my children, 
listening to the breeze, 
listening to my heartbeat,
listening for guidance,
listening to my friends,
and lets be honest, listening to lots of tantrums and timer beeps and the whirring of laundry machines.

As I took time every day lately to stop and listen, to take a couple deep breaths, and to center myself, I began to see my days in a different light. I've felt for the first time in a while that I am actually contributing to my friendships again, that I'm able to be a more understanding and patient mother, that I've been able to better control my anxiety, and that I've been able to see a loving hand in my every-day life. I'm challenging you guys for this week to make a conscious effort to listen more. Pause, breath, and listen, and then come back and let me know if you saw any positive effects that might not have happened otherwise:)

We have had so many moments of happiness in the last little while, and I've done so much soul-searching and self-discovery, and so much has changed and happened that I can't wait to share with you all! So many of you have commented or messaged or sent mail and care-packages during that time, letting me know that we were still being lifted up by happy thoughts and prayers, and I can't thank you enough. 

Be back soon, I promise

20 comments:

  1. My Sweetest Emily ... Welcome back hon. Thank you for sharing what must have been the hardest thing ever to share. While looking over all of the photos again I could not get past the one of you laying beside Martin. It is such a personal photo and to share it with all of us helped us to understand a small part of the pain you were going thru. I was blessed to have my Michael push thru his illness and I now count every day we have together a new blessing. I prayed so hard for Martin to pull thru but the pain was just too much for his body to endure. Please know that I will continue to keep all of you in my prayers and in my heart.
    Always here for you ...
    Lana

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  2. Welcome back, Emily :) In so happy to hear you all are taking time together and absorbing the good. Thinking of you and your little ones often.

    -Sara

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  3. Challenge accepted. And when I practise listening? Heck, God has half a chance of being heard. Win-win.

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  4. So glad to see you post again and hear you are doing well. Thinking of you and your little ones always..
    Nicole

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  5. Welcome back, Emily. Wishing you many such moments of reflection, joy and smiles. :)

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  6. You are such a strong, inspirational woman Emily. Your children are truly lucky to have you xx

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  7. Take all the time you need dear one. We'll be here and ready when you are!

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  8. Welcome back Emily. I'll try to listen more this week :)

    Abigail Alice x

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  9. Sending hugs your way! Welcome back! :)

    Mel xo

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  10. Welcome back, Emily! I will take your challenge and try to listen more :) xx

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  11. This is beautiful. What a wonderful way to turn such tragic events into becoming an even more present person and parent. Much love your way...

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  12. Thank you for the reminder! I will focus more on my family and friends this week and less on what is going on in this crazy world and spend time in prayer...listening to what God has to say to me. You are a beautiful reminder to be still and know! God be with you and those beautiful babies Ms. Emily

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  13. Such a good reminder and such a positive message! Listening is so hard and I feel when you do it you learn so much! Can't wait to hear about your journey and what you're learning!

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  14. Your strength is admirable, dearest. Keep fighting the good fight.

    Fallon @ Mountains & Mimosas

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  15. Love this challenge. Thanks for sharing your journey with us. You are such an inspiration!

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  16. Love this post, will really try to slow down and LISTEN this week. Hope your little family is doing well :)

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  17. I love this. It is so good to hear from you again :) I have been praying for you and your sweet little family.

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  18. Hi Emily,

    I've been reading your blog for a few years now (never commented).
    Just wanted to say you're amazing. Your honesty, vulnerability and love are an inspiration.

    Your posts are always so eloquent and elegantly written.


    Thank you.

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  19. Welcome back Emily! You are such an inspiration to so many and I thank you for sharing your strength. You and your little ones are in my prayers daily. Blessings to you all. Great to see you smile again!

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  20. You're such a stunning inspiration! I have followed your blog for some time, and only recently realized I wasn't even subscribed. You have gorgeous photography and writing.Your fantastic ability to press through all that you have is simply unbelievable. May God bless you and your family dearly.

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