It’s Freezing Out There
March 12th, 2010
“Mommy, can I go sledding?” I did a double take to see if it was my six year-old daughter who asked me that question. Just two weeks ago, she dramatically entered the house sobbing and proclaiming how she never wanted to go sledding e-v-e-r again. Snow had gotten down in her boots and gloves, and her feet and hands were cold. She didn’t like the ice cold, freezing feeling that it gave her.
Fast forward to today. Several inches of snow on the ground closed school, and the neighborhood kids were out playing in it with their bright colored sleds. Olivia quickly forgot the cold, freezing feeling that the snow gave her two weeks prior. She happily put on her snow suit, grabbed her gloves and hat, and out the door she went to join in the fun.
Isn’t that how we look at life? There are times where we may get burned or not enjoy what life hands us. How do you handle setbacks or times when you feel you got burned? Do you allow a setback to be an opportunity for a comeback and enjoy what life has to offer? Or, do you allow the experience to keep you “inside”, peering through windows into the happiness of others’ lives.
I must admit that there have been times in my life where I’ve gotten “burned”. I retreated for a short time to lick my wounds, but then had a choice to make. I could choose to stay where I was or try again to experience what life had to offer. Ultimately, I chose to take that first step forward again and get back out there in the world. No regrets. None. I don’t want to live my life throwing myself a pity party or feeling sorry for myself. Instead, I am now glowing with a life full of purpose and passion. It all begins with that first step. It may seem like that first step is insurmountable, but it can be done. I did it. My six year-old did it. You can do it.
There is still a lot of snow on the ground here. My daughter and her friends are building snow castles and sledding down hills, having a great time. Had she stayed inside and not experienced the fun of playing in the snow, she wouldn’t have experienced the laughter and joy that it brings.
Are you going to let a little snow and cold dampen your spirits when you get burned? Or, are you going to take a moment to regroup and live life with passion and no regrets? Your future is in your hands. So, grab your sled and go enjoy the snow!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Darcy Keith is a national award-winning professional speaker and author, and is an expert on overcoming challenges. She has presented before various corporations, associations, service organizations, churches, and universities, as well as being featured on various television and radio venues including ABC, CBS, and FOX. Visit her website, www.DarcyKeith.com, or to contact Darcy, eMail her at Darcy ‘at ‘ DarcyKeith.com.
EmbracingMyJourney L.L.C. was created by Caryn FitzGerald in 2008.
Caryn, known as "The Manifesting Queen" is a motivational columnist, speaker and writer, she has been featured in and published several books, including "Tulips In The Sand" "Fish Sticks, Books and Blue Jeans" “Manifest Success” “Visual Arts Junction Interviews” & “Online Marketing Success Stories..."
Caryn is a domestic violence survivor who has triumphed over a 10-year battle with anorexia and bulimia. She is a wife, mother, writer, speaker, blogger, coach and a health food enthusiast Click to connect with Caryn at her website Or click here to get inspired by her latest ebook “Living the Life of My Dreams” There may be paid links on this page, click here to read the blog disclaimer.
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Great Story Darcy,
Kids, snow and eyes aglow – amazing how long and how much fun they have. “Dad, I do not need a coat, I am warm blooded” my son Joshua tells me this all the time. None the less, he is not allowed to go outside until he has the snow pant’s, boots, coat, hat, and gloves on. Then off he goes digging tunnels in the snow banks, building forts and making snow angels. One hour later, red face aglow, tired and exhausted. “I do not want to come in yet, Dad!” It’s OK Josh, the snow will be there tomorrow. The fun never stops and when the snow is gone its building forts or creating LEGO masterpieces.
Yes! I watch and play with my children 9 and 11 respectfully. They love new experiences and if I hang out with them long enough, I usually pick up a new experience to. Everyday in every way!!! Living life and loving it!
Brian J. Donley
Author, The Original Psychology of Success, Proven Methods to Attain a Positive, Powerful Winning Attitude