When my oldest niece, Riley, was born, I decided to try and be the most positive and supportive person for her. I wanted and want her to grow and know that there is no limit on what she can do or what she can dream about. My sis says she (Riley) and her baby sister (Taylor) have old souls and it’s the truth. The wisdom these two have and share continues to amaze me on a daily basis. Their views of the world and their beliefs are far beyond their ages and at age 15, Riley’s clearly wise beyond her years and I am so proud of the young woman she’s growing into. I hope that can becomes and wants to become the the positive and supportive person to her sister.

This text message from Riley months ago drives me when I’m feeling all Negative Nancy and whoa-is-me and I am grateful for her because she’s my reminder that I’m on the right path:

I was just sitting around the house writing about what my plans are for the future. And so on. 2 of my biggest goals are to fly to Australia out of school and stay there until I’m able to start my journey on traveling the world. And my second goal is dreads :p I just wanted to tell you that I love you and that you over any band, any artist, or author. No one has impacted me the way you have. I look up to you. You have sparked personality in me and just introduced me things and artists who have won my heart. Without you, I honestly don’t have a clue the person I’d be. I’m so lucky to have you as a aunt. And I wish everyone in the world had someone in their lives like you. You’re never anything but happy and positive and you don’t give up and you’re just an amazing person. And you have a BEAUTIFUL soul aunt Shelia. I love you and I can’t wait to see what all we go through and all the journeys we’ll experience together. Soo thank you Aunt Shelia. I love you so much.

We should remember that our positivity and the Universal light and love we share make a difference in the lives of others.