finding love on the daily.
The past year has been one where love did not equal relationship. This was uncharted territory for me. In place of romantic love, I had the challenge of finding everyday love. As part of this process, I discovered that I felt “daily love” most deeply in two ways.
Don’t worry (gentlemen); I am not going all mushy on you.
First source, and perhaps more obvious, is myself. Those who know me would probably tell you that I never had a shortage of Vanessa-love; but, it took a year of autonomy, great friends, and, let’s be honest, wine, to really learn to let the love flow. Instead of judging every action, thought and status, I simply observed and acknowledged. I allowed myself to embrace positive attributes, accept less attractive qualities, and let go of negative behavior. The re-concentration of energy opened up room for some serious me-love.
In Woodstock, NY with some my beautiful best friends and largest sources of love!
Second “daily love” source: strangers. Admittedly, that sounds odd. I did not run up and hug random people on the street. I did, however, take greater notice of my surroundings and the people buzzing through it. There are of course those that prefer to keep to themselves. Still, I found that the simple act of striking a conversation with a stranger or acquaintance (i.e. not someone on my key life actors list: friends, family, colleagues) generated a spark of positivity. Any initial judgments I had of a person (that “weird” guy on the metro, loud people at starbucks, randos in class) became suspended and replaced with positive vibes. In other, words, I found a simple way to reconnect with humanity and spread some positive energy. Is that not the root of love?
And if you are looking for some mojo for your “Daily love” support around town here is what I recommend:
Hot Vinyasa Flow @ The Studio DC;
“Harry Callahan at 100”, a phenom photography exhibit at the National Gallery of Art (open through March 4)
Great films at E Street Cinema s (and you can drink wine/beer during the movie!)
Enjoy the weekend people!
Vanessa
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Vanessa’s life revolves around keeping her boss at the State Department happy, staying on top of current events, kickin’ it with the lady-friends, and fashion. She is busy with grad school, but always finds time for yoga, a solid night out, and pretending to be a food critic. With an affinity for travel, Vanessa has lived in West Africa and carries a particular fondness for the continent in her heart. Oh, and she is trying realllly hard to learn French. Bisous Bisous.
