Between the ages 20 – 40, I found myself in and out of abusive relationships. That’s a whole other story, but conversely, today, I’m in a partnership of 16 years that’s beyond my wildest dreams. My husband and I always seek ways to enhance our relationship. I’ve finished a degree in Psychology and have received numerous certifications in the area of coaching and providing spiritual support. I’ve more recently trained in supporting people through their end of life process.
Don’t put your dreams on hold anymore. Life is way too short. It’s time to step into your brilliance and realize the fullness of your radiance.
I love my life and feel vibrant and excited about what’s possible. I no longer feel it necessary to play small and settle for scraps off the table. I made a decision about 20 years ago that life was a smorgasbord and I was ready for a 16 course meal. And boy did life deliver! I get to explore any side of me I wish and have created a loving community of support. I also get to witness the incredible example of my mother-in-law who was a nurse, mother of 8, then in her 50s got a Masters in Public Administration and still at 88 is learning how to perfect her craft of photography. I often wonder about women who for some reason or another are putting themselves last, if they even allow themselves to dream at all. I came from a patriarchal household like many who grew up during my time. I recall my mother being on the quiet side. As time marched on she started to come into her own, but the journey was slow. She really was a brilliant woman, but often deferred to my father’s loud booming voice. I don’t recall him putting her down, but the way his voice always overshadowed hers, I’m not so sure she was given space to explore her needs. Certainly as the mother of six, I was #4, her time was constantly in demand. While both my parents were educated, the right opportunities never seemed to come my father’s way. And, so my mother took part-time jobs at local department stores to help supplement the family income. And, when he was laid off for a longer period of time, off she went into the big city and started working full-time. But still, it was up to her or the children to keep the house in order and get meals on the table.
My mom was brilliant. Truly. She loved foreign films, philosophy, psychology, and world religion. While both my parents loved the theater, my mother always made time to take me to see shows in New York City, whether the ballet or Ingrid Bergman playing in a foreign film. And, if I was struggling with something in my life, she never hesitated to find resources for me to move through those challenging times.
Even though she was brilliant, I don’t think I knew that. It was always about my dad. She frequently let the light shine on him or us kids. I’m not sure if she squelched her dreams or didn’t allow herself to dream them. Was it low self esteem, or being selfless? I do believe if my mom was starting out today, she would have been a writer or a magazine editor. Or perhaps she would have been an artist. She often said if she could, she would get a small apartment in Greenwich Village. I could absolutely see her surrounded by interesting people sitting in Washington Square Park loving her life. When she finally was free of her own anger about my father’s infidelity, Alzheimer’s stepped in like a thief in the night. Radiant Self Coaching is about helping women step into, realize and/or live their dreams. If they haven’t identified them yet, that’s where coaching comes in. If they need help getting started, I can provide that support. If they’re already under way, and want that continued support, one of my coaching programs can help fulfill that need. Don’t put your dreams on hold anymore. Life is way too short. It’s time to step into your brilliance and realize the fullness of your radiance.