10/26/2025
What's important
I've been alive for a long time; I just celebrated by 84th birthday, and it's time to reflect and draw a few conclusions about what is truly important in life.
Wanting to involve myself in plenitude, which is classic to reflections on life, is not very difficult. It returns to the tried-and-true reflection on what makes life worthwhile and worth living.
At the top of my list, and I'm sure many of yours, is family. They are the ones who shape our values, guide our direction, and support us as we navigate life's challenges.
The foundation of values comes from family. That is not to say, of course, that we cannot exist without that foundation, but it certainly does support us as we move forward, shape our relationships and values, and guide our direction in life.
Courage: this is the ability to stand firm and clear in the face of adversity and challenges to our fundamental beliefs in ourselves and our basic values.
As a psychotherapist, I have seen heroes of all sizes and shapes across four continents. Be it a child struggling with oppression or a young man or woman showing the courage to say no when their world insists on saying yes when no was the correct answer!
Believe me when I say, there is a 'hero' in each and every one of us. It's not a matter of if, but when, we will rise to the occasion and show our courage.
If you doubt that, I wish you had been with me and witnessed some of the people who, in their moment of crisis, shared their stories about their parents, relatives, partners, children, and so on. Important adults, people in power, stood tall and stood up for themselves, their views, and their values! There were times when I finished a client session, wiping tears from my eyes, deeply touched by the words and their courage, which came directly from their hearts, revealing the actual ability people have to press on and be the people they are.
Let us never forget the magic of what we see, the potential, and the strength that lies within us. Prepare yourself for the day when you fully embrace this person, and never let anyone tell you differently!
Listen to the sound of your heartbeat and open yourself to the wisdom of what you know is right. Hear me, have hope and faith in yourself, and know that you are not alone. There is at least one person in this world who believes in you!
Yes, we all have our flaws and make mistakes, but that's what makes us unique and wonderful. Embrace your imperfections, learn from your mistakes, and open your heart and mind to the beautiful gift that is you. Let it go, hear it, and then let it out. It is you; you are the gift of God.
Now, if you don't like what you see, hear, or feel, make the changes. It is a decision NOW! I've seen people all over the world find their path. Ask yourself, why not me? I leave you with my favorite four-letter word-DOIT! This word encapsulates the power of action, the courage to change, and the belief in oneself. It's a reminder that you can shape your own life.
I'm Dr. Barry Austin Goodfield, and I believe in you!