Oh how I love people who feel like sunlight. They enter a space and make everyone feel lighter, cooler, and in a better mood. I’m convinced this is somewhat intentional. In the pride they take in their appearance, the way they look you in the eye, a smile, a warm hug. As life would have it, these people too, have been chewed up and spit out by the universe. Don’t let the high vibe fool you. In fact, probably more than most, they’ve walked through heartbreak, grief, disappointment, face-plants, reinvention, and loss with enough grace and humor to inspire even the harshest of skeptics. Oh heck no. They don’t play victim. Instead, they move through life with an understanding that everyone’s dealing with something so take nothing personally.
In my early years, I thought being in the Good Soul running meant being nice. Helpful. Agreeable. The kind of woman who could hold it all together and would make sure the world knew she had it all figured out. But life has a way of serving up some serious curveballs and BOOM, just like that, man down.
For me, it was my mid-thirties. Whilst on top of the world came a divorce, a house fire, the loss of my business, and the loss of my parents (a loss I’m still not at all cool with). Somehow, I kept making way through the depths of this landmine infested season of my existence. Then, things took an upturn. I met Manny and fell madly in love. He whisked me up from the gallows and took me from New Jersey to Lake Norman with zero hesitation on my end.
I settled into my happy new normal, clarity set in. What I learned was the most difficult seasons taught me the most and the most uncomfortable places forced me into my very own personal wonderland. They had to happen. I began to understand that being a Good Soul has very little to do with people-pleasing and perfection and everything to do with our ability to adapt, find the good, and be grateful.
I’ve spent so many years relishing in the glow of what I thought was only in the hearts and minds of other people when it was already ablaze inside of me. The sunlight! The Good Soul! Ahhhh, yes! The world reflects back what we carry within ourselves. When we choose to live with joy, authenticity, compassion, non-judgment, and love, it radiates. When we see our challenges as springboards and totally necessary, we are onto some pure genius. Remember, a happy healthy you is a happy healthy world around you.
What is a Good Soul you ask? A Good Soul is within you. A Good Soul is within me. It’s in all of us; and now, allow me to encourage you to always tap into and cultivate these gifts within. The one thing you can control is YOU—beautiful you, and serve as an instrument for good. I believe in you and so should you … it’s gonna be work, but I’m confident we’re up for the challenge!
Patti Alvarez, is the owner of Good Soul Hot Yoga in Mooresville and host of “The Good Soul” show on WSIC Radio. Through thoughtful conversations and inspiring guests, Patti shines a light on the experiences, passions, and journeys that make each person unique. Visit www.wsicnews.com and www.goodsoulhotyoga.com.
