Keeping My Flame Ablaze
Since venturing to San Juan, Puerto Rico in April for a much needed solo getaway, I’ve been feeling refreshed, motivated, and inspired. Oftentimes, travelers return from their journey complaining that their trip wasn’t long enough or how they wish to escape the misery of their everyday life. But for me, I still feel the positive effects of that vacation, a slow paced-trip filled with plenty of sun and rest. There’s no need to question why this is because I’ve been making a conscious effort to hold on to the bliss of my vacation without feeling the negative longing of needing another trip as soon as possible.
Of course, it’s easy to return home with an abundance of joy and motivation after a tropical vacation, but as time passes, the flame will fade if there’s no effort to keep it bright. Knowing this, I’ve been incorporating positive activities to give myself boosts, keeping the fire ablaze. Doing this isn’t always easy, but it’s a scientific fact that it takes energy to create energy, so the effort you put in is necessary!
Warm weather presents many positive opportunities and as summer approaches, I find myself more adventurous, admiring things I never noticed before, and taking part in what the younger me dreamed of doing. As I write this, for example, I’m by myself at happy hour, tipsy on sangria on an early weekday evening. The sun is shining brightly on my face through the window while I watch folks walk by and smile at each other. This fills me with gratitude as I have the privilege to enjoy slow moments alone. I decided to try this restaurant to savor some time before attending a poetry workshop. This is an excellent example of keeping momentum; I felt great before and I’m using that energy to create another opportunity to feel great, brightening the flame within.
Keeping positive momentum goes beyond happy hours and community events. It’s more about the ability to care for yourself and taking the steps to truly be fulfilled with your life. Doing this requires you to be comfortable being alone and communicating with yourself. For me, it starts in the morning: as I complete my hygiene routine, I set the tone for my day by expressing gratitude and saying positive affirmations. I dress myself in nice clothes, apply pleasant scents, and adorn myself with jewelry and accessories. Before I even leave my home, my mind, body, and spirit is in a pleasant space, so much so that it’s hard for others to make my attitude waver. I’m mindful of my stride, my breath, and the environment I’m in. I buy myself flowers biweekly and tasty treats when I find myself craving them. When I return home, I wash off the day and write to free the thoughts in my mind. After all is done, I feel so much joy; I’m living life the way I want to. There’s nothing that can replace the feeling of inner joy when you prioritize yourself and hold space for gratitude.
Selected Poetry
Today’s Monthly Note inspired me to write the poem below:
Sleep is peaceful when
You let rain pour
We knew the storm would come
Moans still rumble within as they
Grit loose teeth
While I hum in soaking gardens
Washed clean of the forgotten
Reflective Prompts
Take a moment to open your journal and reflect on the above writings using the prompts below
What activities do you implement to keep your flame ablaze? Which habits can you add to your daily routine to maintain a positive outlook on life?
How often do you connect with yourself? What do you usually do and how does it nourish you?
Feel free to share your thoughts on Instagram and TikTok! Tag me @kekeserene
Featured Song