What Kind of Flower Are You?
Bloom where you are planted.
-The Bishop of Geneva, Saint Francis de Sales (1567-1622)
It’s been quite some time since I’ve written on this blog. So many events have happened globally and personally which have triggered the need for me to pause a bit. Like everyone at the beginning of 2020, I had no clue as to what the year would bring but I’m certain that no one expected so many disruptions at the scale and furiosity which has occurred. 2020 is proving to be a pivotal year, with grave effects on our physical and emotional world for decades and generations to come.
We are all planted these days, whether we like it or not.
Like most, I’ve managed to adapt in my own way. Although I hit pause on this blog, the ability to work from home and gain additional productive and restorative hours allowed me to hit “start” on several other projects. In March, I launched a podcast called “eat.plank.live” which focuses on how food, fitness, and wellness combine to help us live richer lives. My guests range from authority figures in medicine and fitness to tech entrepreneurs. I’ve had such an amazing time with the project because in addition to writing, I’m able to create something that I believe is meaningful and lasting, and may hopefully help someone, even if it’s purely an entertaining laugh. The EPL podcast really is a labor of love and something which seemed daunting in the beginning of my journey. The podcast is live on Spotify, Google podcasts, Apple podcasts and Stitcher.
I’ve also become a regular content contributor for SWAAY magazine. SWAAY is an online digital platform devoted to uplifting the voices of women. I had the pleasure of speaking with Iman Oubou (the founder) and was blown away by her dedication towards empowering every woman to be successful in her own way. If you or anyone you know enjoys writing, SWAAY provides editorial guidance to any female with a point of view on any range of topics.
I’ve definitely been busy and have tried to leverage these challenging times to really put myself out there and nourish ideas I’ve had on my mind for a while. Although we’ve all lost experiences due to the pandemic from cancelled vacations to the loss of family, friends and acquaintances, I like to think I’ll come out on the other end further along than when the year started.
Whether it’s a new found love of gardening or a hobby with a family member, I hope that everyone finds joy and something new to nourish and bring joy.
Be safe.
Aji