Cultivating Joy: A Thanksgiving Message on Appreciation

Dear Friend Who Needs Help (I can’t give the actual name),

I need to be honest with you. Your constant negativity is draining, and your inability to take action on your dreams is frustrating. Why do you let your insecurities hold you back? It’s exhausting to watch you sabotage your potential with self-doubt.

Every time I hear you talk about wanting to change your life, I feel a mix of frustration and sadness. You have so much talent and creativity, yet you choose to remain stuck in this rut. It’s as if you’re standing at the edge of a cliff, ready to jump into a new adventure, but instead, you retreat into the safety of your comfort zone.

And let’s talk about your tendency to compare yourself to others. It’s infuriating to see you scroll through social media, longing for a life you think others have. The truth is, you’re losing sight of your own worth. Instead of celebrating your achievements, you dwell on perceived failures and shortcomings.

You often dismiss compliments, shrugging them off as insincere or exaggerated. This self-deprecation not only undermines your own accomplishments but also frustrates those of us who genuinely want to uplift you. You tend to play the victim, often blaming external circumstances for your unhappiness instead of taking responsibility for your own choices. This pattern leaves you feeling powerless and stuck, while the potential for change lies within your grasp.

Do you not see how your self-criticism affects those around you? It’s like a dark cloud that looms over every conversation. You constantly seek validation from others, but it’s time to realize that true validation comes from within.

Why do you insist on pointing out what’s wrong instead of embracing what’s right? You’re intelligent, compassionate, and capable of so much more than you give yourself credit for. Yet, you often undermine your abilities by focusing on your perceived failures. It’s time to stop holding yourself back and start stepping into the fullness of who you are.

I’m writing this because I care. I want you to see the amazing person you can be if you just let go of the fears that bind you. You deserve to live a life filled with joy and purpose, but it starts with you acknowledging your value.

So, take a moment to breathe, reflect, and remember that you have the power to change your story. I believe in you, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. Let this letter be a gentle nudge towards recognizing your brilliance and stepping into your greatness.

With love and encouragement,
Toni

So how did that letter make you feel, were you uncomfortable? I was not writing that to anyone - it’s purely an internal discussion I have had with myself. Can you relate?

“The mind is everything. What you think you become.” — Buddha

When you dwell in negativity, you’re quite literally creating a reality that reflects that energy. But remember, the law of attraction, the law of abundance, the power of self propulsion, aren't just about positive thinking; it’s all about understanding your emotions and how they shape your experience. As Neville Goddard said, “You can’t think greater than your highest concept of yourself.” So, what’s your highest concept? Are you living in alignment with it?

Let’s not forget about Abraham Hicks, who reminds us that “you are the creator of your own reality.” If you’re not creating the life you desire, it’s time to assess what’s holding you back. Is it fear? Self-doubt? The constant chatter of that inner critic? It’s time to change the narrative!

And, let’s channel Bob Proctor for a moment. He often emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and mindset. You have the power to shift your mindset, to look at your perceived flaws and transform them into stepping stones toward your greatest self. Your journey is yours alone, and it’s ripe with potential if you choose to see it that way.

Reflection on the Letter

As you think on  the opening letter, I invite you to take a moment to reflect on your own inner dialogue. How often do you find yourself critiquing your every move? How often do you let self-doubt dictate your actions? I’ve been there and catch myself there, and I know how easy it is to get caught up in the cycle of negativity.

This letter serves as a mirror reflecting the harsh realities of my own self-critique. It’s a raw, honest look at the fears and insecurities we all harbor. By sharing it, I hope to spark a conversation about the inner dialogues we all experience—the ones that tell us we’re not enough or that we should be doing better.

In writing this, I want you to know you’re not alone in this struggle. Many of us grapple with the weight of our perceived flaws. And while this letter may sound harsh, it’s a necessary step toward recognizing those inner voices. Awareness is the first step in transforming our narratives.

Let’s dig a little deeper into this. When was the last time you really sat down and listened to that inner critic? Was it during a moment of vulnerability or self-doubt? These dialogues often stem from past experiences, societal expectations, or even family dynamics. But it’s time to reclaim your narrative!

Practical Exercises: Your Turn to Reflect

Now it’s time to get a little interactive! I invite you to write your own “rejection letter.” Grab a pen and paper, and pour your thoughts onto the page. Be honest—let it all out!

But here’s the twist: after you’ve finished, set the letter aside and write a follow-up appreciation letter. Acknowledge the lessons you’ve learned and the qualities you love about yourself. Embrace the journey and celebrate the growth that comes from recognizing your flaws.

And let’s be truly honest with ourselves: if you’re not where you want to be, that’s not a bad thing; it’s actually pretty freakin’ awesome to acknowledge! You can’t plot a course for where you want to go without first understanding where you are. Just like I can’t get to Disneyworld if I’m still sitting in Vancouver, plotting my route but never starting the journey.

So here are some actionable steps to help you on this journey:

1. Acknowledge Your Current Reality: It’s okay to admit you’re not where you want to be. Use this realization as a launchpad for change. “The first step toward change is awareness. The second step is acceptance.” — Nathaniel Branden.
2. Set Your Destination: Once you recognize where you are, define where you want to go. What does your dream life look like? Be specific! This clarity will help you map your course.
3. Start the Journey: You won’t get as far as Seattle and say, “Well, I can’t see Disneyworld yet, so I might as well turn around.” Instead, recognize that each step you take, no matter how small, is a part of your journey. Embrace the process!
4. Mindfulness and Presence: Engage in mindfulness practices to ground yourself in the present moment. When you feel negativity creeping in, take a moment to breathe and reconnect with your surroundings. This practice helps to quiet the inner critic and opens the door to appreciation.
5. Daily Appreciation Ritual: Start a daily appreciation ritual where you spend a few minutes reflecting on what you appreciate about yourself. This can be anything from your creativity, your ability to connect with others, or even your quirky sense of humor. The more you practice, the easier it becomes to shift your focus from negativity to positivity.

Quote to Consider: “Gratitude turns what we have into enough.” — Aesop

The Power of Appreciation

You might be wondering, “What’s the big deal about appreciation?” Well, let me tell you: appreciation is the secret sauce to joy and manifestation. When we appreciate ourselves, we shift our energy and open ourselves up to receive even more goodness from the universe.

Think about it. When you wake up and take a moment to appreciate the warmth of your blankets or the deliciousness of your morning coffee, you’re sending out positive vibes into the universe. It’s like telling the universe, “Hey, I’m ready for more of this!” And guess what? The universe listens.

Appreciation is a magnet for abundance. The more we appreciate, the more we attract. It’s like adding a dash of sparkle to our lives!

So, how can we cultivate a practice of appreciation in our daily lives? Here are a few more tips (use what works for you):

1. Morning Appreciation Ritual: As soon as you wake up, take a moment to appreciate something—anything! It could be the comfort of your bed, the sunshine peeking through your window, or the delicious breakfast you have waiting for you.
2. Appreciation Walks: Get outside and go for a walk! Use your senses to appreciate the world around you. Notice the colors, the sounds, the smells—take it all in and savor those glimmer moments of magic.
3. Compliment Challenge: Make it a point to compliment at least three people each week. Acknowledging the beauty in others helps us appreciate ourselves too!
4. Write Thank-You Notes: Express your appreciation by writing thank-you notes to people who have made a difference in your life. This practice fosters a sense of gratitude and strengthens your connections with others.
5. End-of-Day Reflection: Before you go to bed, take a few moments to reflect on your day. What did you appreciate about yourself? What small victories did you achieve? This practice helps reinforce positive self-talk and appreciation.

Conclusion: Embracing the Journey

“You are not your thoughts. You are the awareness behind them.” — Eckhart Tolle

In closing, I want to remind you that our flaws and insecurities don’t define us; they are merely stepping stones on our path to becoming the vibrant, authentic beings we are meant to be. Life is a beautiful journey filled with ups and downs, and it’s in those moments of challenge that we often find our greatest opportunities for growth.

As you navigate through your emotions, remember that it's okay not to have it all figured out. We’re not here to be perfect; we’re here to be real. “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” — Mahatma Gandhi. This change starts within, and it begins with embracing every part of ourselves, even the parts we struggle to accept.

So, the next time that inner critic starts to rear its ugly head, take a deep breath, grab that pen, and write. Write your fears, your doubts, and then flip the script and write your appreciation. Celebrate the journey you’re on, because it’s uniquely yours.

Let’s commit to living a life filled with appreciation, not just for the big wins but for the small victories as well. As Bob Proctor wisely says, “Thoughts become things. If you see it in your mind, you will hold it in your hand.” Visualize your highest self and appreciate the journey you are on to get there.

You are magnificent, flaws and all. Embrace your journey, keep your heart open, and let appreciation be the guiding force that lights your way. Remember, the universe is listening to the vibrations you send out, so let’s make them count!

Together, let’s pull our heads out of our asses and embrace the expansive journey ahead—filled with joy, love, and endless possibilities.

With love and appreciation,
Toni

Oh ya - here’s my new letter:

Dear Wonderful Me,

Hey there, beautiful! I know life can feel a bit messy sometimes. You might not have it all together, and you might not be where you want to be just yet, but let me tell you this: you can be, do, and have anything you want. You just need to believe it into being!

I see you, navigating through life with all its twists and turns, and it’s okay to feel uncertain at times. Just remember: you’ve got this! Your dreams are valid, and the journey is just as important as the destination. It’s not about how fast you get there; it’s about the magic you create along the way.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the beautiful truths in your life. Your body may not be where you want it to be, but your partner still snuggles you close, winks at you with adoration, and reminds you that you are perfect just as you are. That love is a treasure!

And yes, your finances might not reflect the abundance you envision right now, but guess what? You’re on your way! Every step you take, every decision you make, brings you closer to your financial goals. At 51, you have a wealth of experience and wisdom that guides you.

Your home may not be your dream home yet, but man, is it cozy and sweet! It’s filled with love, laughter, and memories that warm your heart. Your children love you fiercely, and your mom is your biggest cheerleader. And don’t forget your fantastic friends—they uplift you, support you, and remind you of your incredible worth.

When you look in the mirror, see the strength in your eyes. You have the power to transform your life. You’ve already come so far, and that’s worth celebrating! Acknowledge the little victories—each step forward is a testament to your resilience and determination.

Sure, some days may feel heavy, and doubts might creep in. But when that happens, take a deep breath and remember your worth. You are intelligent, compassionate, and capable of achieving your dreams. Let go of self-doubt and embrace the journey with open arms.

Believe in yourself! You have everything you need within you to create the life you envision. Just take it one step at a time. And when you stumble—and you might—don’t be too hard on yourself. Dust yourself off, learn from the experience, and keep moving forward. That’s what growth is all about.

Embrace the power of your thoughts, as they shape your reality. Surround yourself with positivity, and don’t hesitate to seek support from your loved ones. You are never alone on this journey!

So here’s the deal: let’s make a pact to appreciate every part of ourselves—both the shiny bits and the not-so-shiny bits. Celebrate your quirks, your uniqueness, and your passion for life. Remember, you are worthy of love and joy just as you are.

As you continue to navigate this wild and wonderful journey, keep your heart open. Trust the process and know that you are on the right path. You are magnificent, and your story is still being written.

With love and unwavering belief in me,

Me.

🦃🍂🍁

As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving in Canada, and feel free to take the moment to reflect whether you are Canadian or not, it's the perfect time to reflect on the power of appreciation. In a world that often focuses on what we lack, I invite you to shift your perspective and celebrate the incredible journey you’re on. Whether you're navigating challenges in your personal life, career, or relationships, remember that you are worthy of love and joy just as you are. Join me, and join the club if you haven't already, as we explore the beauty of self-love, the importance of community, and the transformative impact of recognizing our unique qualities. Let’s embrace this season of gratitude and cultivate a life filled with joy and abundance!

❤️Toni and All Of Us At The Joy and Manifestation Club