Posted by: faultlessfinish | June 25, 2013

The Best Birthday Gift

“In the end, though, maybe we must all give up trying to pay back the people in this world who sustain our lives. In the end, maybe it’s wiser to surrender before the miraculous scope of human generosity and to just keep saying thank you, forever and sincerely, for as long as we have voices.” – Elizabeth Gilbert

My heart is full of gratitude right now. On Saturday, I had the opportunity to witness the marriage of my childhood best friend. I’m so grateful knowing that someone so close to my heart married someone who loves her so much. Thank you, Teej, for inviting me to be part of your beautiful day.

While I was away, Calgary was pummeled by devastating floods. My phone didn’t stop ringing all weekend. The emails didn’t stop pouring in. My friends were there for me before I even knew what was going on. And I know I’m not the only one to have this experience. People all over the city immediately offered up their homes to the displaced and volunteered to help in any way they could.

I was one of the lucky ones. Though I can’t go home for an indefinite amount of time, I’m safe and sound in a condo my friend Donna so graciously opened up for me.

I just want to express my sincere gratitude to Mary Beth, Kerri, Dallas, Donna, Brenda, Richelle, and Carrie for everything you’ve done for me these past few days. And thank you so much to all the friends who so generously offered to help. I truly can’t thank you enough.

Though the next month is a bit up in the air, I couldn’t enter my 27th year happier. I am blessed with the most wonderful people in my life. And I’m so inspired by Calgary’s volunteers – I’ve never seen people come together so quickly to rebuild. I have so much faith that the city will be restored to all its glory in no time at all.

Namaste friends. You’re in my heart. 🙂

Rachel


Responses

  1. Awww well thanks for being part of my day!

  2. Smack dab right in the middle of the year from Christmas must mean it is a good day. Glad you are alright and have wonderful friends to stay with. Have a wonderful day, and enjoy your 27th year of being!

  3. Many happy returns on your 27th birthday! It will definitely be a memorable one for you. I have been following the Calgary flood on CNN, France 24 and BBC World News. I am sending plenty of positive vibes your way. In Dominica, floods are becoming an alarming occurrence after any heavy rainfall – which we expect tomorrow! Must be that unfortunate climate change affecting all of us, no matter where we live…Take good care.

  4. been following this closely on CBC “The National”- thoughts from Ottawa are with u.

    • Thank you all so much – your thoughts are greatly appreciated.

      • Gwen, I hope the rain subsides for you and there’s no flooding in your part of the world!! Sending positive vibes right back.

  5. Thank YOU for being a positive force and inspiration 🙂

  6. Hope all is gong OK, and you get sorted soon with the floods.

    Jim

    • Thanks Jim! I’ll be back in my place this month 🙂


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