Chapter 1: The Garden of Reflection

In the garden, a tree strains against a fence, reminiscent of a child tugging at their parent in a shop devoid of allure. Its persistent pull is so strong that the fence is beginning to yield. Though small, this tree boasts sturdy branches that sway gracefully, shedding white blossom petals that dance in the breeze. Suddenly, a white cat enters my field of vision. With a single leap, it lands in the garden, locks eyes with me, and then ventures toward the tree. I can't help but ponder if the tree and its blossoms captivate the cat's attention as much as they do mine.

In just over two weeks, I will embark on a retreat in Ibiza. A close friend, whom I’ve known for nearly thirty years, is an enthusiastic NLP Master and a wizard of personal growth. NLP, or Neuro-Linguistic Programming, consists of three key elements:

• N for neuro — the way we think
• L for linguistic — the manner in which we communicate
• P for programming — our habits or behavioral patterns

At its essence, NLP invites us to reshape our thoughts, thus transforming our lives. With an open heart, I look forward to embracing this opportunity. This morning, I participated in a call led by my friend and another NLP practitioner titled "Morning Miracles." It set a positive tone for my day, rekindling my sense of curiosity and potential. I feel fortunate to have another day to delve into and assimilate the insights from that call into my life. As I write, I occasionally glance at the garden, now devoid of the cat. I wonder where it has wandered off to and what adventures it might be having.

Chapter 2: The Journey of Self-Exploration

Earlier this week, I reflected on my job search while I continue to explore writing as a potential career. For now, I embrace this practice as a way to strengthen my writing skills. With NLP on my mind, I contemplate my thoughts regarding myself and my current situation. I also wonder what that cat perceives about its day, or how much it immerses itself in the present moment—its paws guiding it from one garden to another, seeking nourishment, shelter, companionship, or sunlight; chasing after squirrels, relishing in movement. Just like the cat, I have the power to design my own day.

The first video, "New Day, New Way | Jesus, The Miracle Worker | Week 12 | Andy Moore," delves into the theme of transformation and the miracles we can create in our lives.

One enlightening takeaway from the "Morning Miracles" call was the concept of resources. What tools do I have at my disposal to utilize throughout my day? If I embrace the belief that "I am already enough" and possess everything I need to simply "be," how will I navigate the rest of my day? Where will my journey take me, and what revelations will I uncover along the way? Today, I choose to reflect and sway in the breeze like the tree, exploring what it means to experience life as a human being rather than merely a human doing. My focus will not be on completing tasks, but rather on reconnecting with my resources through a lens of curiosity.

The second video, "The Miracle of the New Day, Morning Meditation," encourages viewers to embrace the miracles that each new day brings.

I express my gratitude to my friend, the cat, and the tree, and I cherish another day to explore and savor. I may not know where my writing, job applications, or networking will lead me, but I am filled with the hope that this morning can serve as a launchpad for miracles. In fact, I am reminded that I am already amidst them, and that realization brings a smile to my face. Today is a miracle in itself, and I am committed to fully enjoying it.