Several years ago I attended a seminar near Amsterdam. I set out to answer what was next in my life. After a full day of Dutch and English discussion, I was no wiser about what I wanted than when the day began. Or so I thought.

The seminar leader told us to write several pages about our experiences that day once we retired to our rooms. I was stumped. I had no clue what the next step in my career should be. So I sat with my pen in hand without a word to say.

Snapping off the light, I decided to sleep on it. But as often happens with me, I awoke in the middle of the night with a thousand thoughts cascading through my brain. In the dark, I wrote nonstop for twenty minutes. It was as if a floodgate had been opened.

I wanted to change the world through words. Having already published two books, I knew I had something more meaningful to share than just a few stories about my own life. It was time for me to start public speaking.

And so began a new journey of discovery. Seeds were planted that weekend, which later came into fruition through more books, public speaking opportunities and even this blog.

The great thing about life is that we are constantly planting seeds, whether we know it or not. A kind interaction with someone can later lead to a blossoming friendship. Or a business meeting that went well can turn into a long-lasting partnership. A misstep in communication can place your world on its head ~ always for the better, even if you don’t realize it at the time.

I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. There is no sense in resisting what comes your way because resistance creates anxiety while acceptance opens doors. Deal with life’s challenges the best you can with the understanding that a joyful heart will attract even more joy, which then spreads to others ~ one word at a time.