Take time to contemplate the beliefs that ring true for you.

By Mary Boutieller

As I settle into this year, I want to shed ideas that no longer serve me and question attitudes and beliefs to see if they are still relevant. I also want to grow deeper in my understanding of all that life has to offer—and have some fun while I’m at it!

In keeping with that, I thought I’d share some beliefs that still ring true to me:

I believe that each morning we wake up is another opportunity to do something real, meaningful, or different. As long as we are drawing a breath, it’s not too late. All we have to do is take that first step.

I believe that there are way more good people doing good things in the world than the other way around. We just have to open our eyes to it.

I believe that hope is both a salve and a fierce form of rebellion against the naysayers who’d like us to think otherwise.

I believe that my attitude about anything changes everything. I can sink or swim based on how I view life’s events.

I believe that everyone has an amazing light within them. If you feel like your light is dimming, wipe away the fog and take another look.

I believe that people will sometimes do or say things that really hurt. Often it means that they are hurting or confused or stuck. Try your best not to take it personally.

I believe that perfect is the enemy of pretty darn good. Let go of all those heavily-laden expectations and live your life.

I believe that sometimes, no matter how hard you try, it just isn’t going to go your way. Be willing to change direction

The Yoga of Life with Mary Boutieller

and look at the wider view. Failure is just a stepping stone, one that the brave must always take.

I believe that you have to trust yourself. If your inner voice has been nudging you, it may be time to listen. You also have to love yourself and forgive yourself. If not now, when?

I believe that fear is there for a reason. Take a look at it, feel it, ask it questions. Is it real or is it an old tape? If it’s real, honor it. If it’s not, throw it away. You just don’t need it anymore. I believe that what you bring to the world is as unique as your fingerprint.

I believe that whether you are lending a hand, holding a hand, or reaching out for a hand, we all need each other. As the saying goes, “But for the grace of God go I.” Each time we open our hearts to another, the world becomes a better place. I believe that everyone is my teacher. What I dislike in another is a mirror for me. The question is, “What is it reflecting?”

I believe that optimism is the fuel that gets us through the day. Knowing that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and that we will get through whatever it is we are going through, can be enough. If it isn’t, reach out, pick up the phone, write a letter, dance your fool head off, until you feel optimistic again.

I believe that “I love you”, “Thank you” and “I’m sorry” are the three most powerful phrases in the world. And maybe a fourth, “I see you.”

Finally, knowing that none of us “make it out alive”, I want to continue to learn, grow, laugh, cry and explore, as best I can, until I’m thoroughly used up and real—like the Velveteen Rabbit, knowing that I am loved.

Mary Boutieller is a Registered Yoga Teacher through Yoga Alliance. She has been teaching yoga since 2005. Her work experience includes 22 years as a firefighter/paramedic and 10 years as a Licensed Massage Therapist. Mary’s knowledge and experience give her a well-rounded understanding of anatomy, alignment, health and movement in the body. She is passionate about the benefits of yoga and the ability to heal at all levels through awareness, compassion, and a willingness to explore. She can be reached at: SimplyogaOm@gmail.com.